Gunman and Victim Killed in Old Dominion University Shooting; Two Others Wounded

A shooting at Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, on Thursday morning resulted in the deaths of the gunman and one victim, with two others sustaining injuries, according to university police.

Details of the Incident

At a news conference, ODU Police Chief Garrett Shelton stated that officers responded to reports of a shooting in a classroom within the university’s College of Business, Constant Hall. Initially, the university reported two injuries, but authorities later confirmed a third victim had sought treatment at a hospital independently. The two surviving victims are reported to be in stable condition.

The circumstances surrounding the attacker’s death remain under investigation, and Chief Shelton did not confirm whether any officers discharged their weapons. He confirmed that all three victims are affiliated with the university.

ROTC Involvement

Two of the injured individuals are members of the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at ODU, according to Lt. Col. Jimmy Delongchamp, public information officer for the U.S. Army Cadet Command at Fort Knox, Kentucky .

Hospital Updates

Sentara Health reported that two victims were transported to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital’s Level I trauma center. One of these patients died, although the other remains in critical condition. A third individual was treated and released from Sentara Independence emergency room in Virginia Beach after arriving via private transportation.

Campus Response and Safety

ODU authorities declared the campus safe approximately an hour after the shooting. Classes were canceled, and all operations at the main campus were suspended until Friday. The university urged individuals to avoid the area around Constant Hall as emergency personnel continued their work. Counseling and food services remained available to students and staff.

Statements from University and State Officials

ODU President Brian Hemphill expressed gratitude for the swift emergency response and extended thoughts and prayers to those affected. He emphasized the university’s commitment to campus safety, stating, “The safety of our campus community is my top priority.”

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger stated she was monitoring the situation and that state support was being mobilized. FBI Director Kash Patel also confirmed that FBI personnel were collaborating with local authorities.

About Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University, located in coastal Norfolk, has approximately 24,000 students, including 17,500 undergraduates. The university offers around 240 degree programs and is recognized for its research spending and doctoral programs. Nearly 30% of its student population is affiliated with the military.