Another campus has faced tragedy as violence erupted at Old Dominion University in Virginia. This time, an attacker shrouded his actions in the guise of religion.
On Thursday, Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a 36-year-old former Virginia National Guard member, opened fire. Authorities are treating the incident as terrorism, given Jalloh’s history of attempting to support ISIS.
The attack claimed the life of Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, a dedicated ROTC instructor, while two others were injured. All three victims were part of the university community.
As investigations unfold, federal authorities are looking deeper into Jalloh’s past. Nearly a decade ago, he was convicted of terrorism-related crimes. He expressed admiration for previous attacks, like the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, raising red flags long before this incident.
Jalloh, a naturalized US citizen from Sierra Leone, served in the Virginia National Guard from 2009 to 2015. During a 2016 investigation, he began consuming material from extremist leaders online. That year, he attempted to aid ISIS by seeking weapons and funding. An undercover FBI source monitored his actions, leading to his arrest.
After a lengthy prison sentence, Jalloh was released early under a federal program for inmates who complete substance abuse treatment. This decision has raised eyebrows, especially in light of his past. Experts worry about how to handle individuals convicted of terrorism once they are back in society.
Once out, Jalloh resumed a life in Virginia, attending Old Dominion University online. Court documents reveal he was still on probation, with only minimal supervision. Neighbors described his family as quiet and reserved. Yet his sudden return to violence has shocked the community and led to many questions about oversight and prevention.
The shooting started in Constant Hall, home to the College of Business at Old Dominion. Jalloh confirmed it was an ROTC event before shouting “Allahu Akbar” and firing shots. This phrase is widely used in Islamic prayer and signifies “God is greatest.” However, it has been misappropriated by extremist groups, distancing it from its true significance.
Fortunately, students reacted quickly, managing to subdue Jalloh before he could cause more harm. Their bravery likely prevented additional casualties.
In the aftermath, calls for improved safety measures and mental health support on campuses have been amplified. In 2022, over 30% of college students reported feeling unsafe on campus due to violence, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive safety protocols.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in addressing extremism and violence in educational environments. As communities grapple with these issues, conversations about prevention, mental health support, and community vigilance are more important than ever.
