A suspected ISIS supporter opened fire at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, before being disarmed by ROTC cadets who intervened during the shooting, law enforcement officials confirmed.
Background
The incident occurred on the Old Dominion University campus in Norfolk, Virginia. Campus police and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following reports of an active shooter. Upon arrival, authorities encountered a suspect who had allegedly expressed support for ISIS and shouted religious slogans during the attack.
The suspect, whose identity has not been released pending formal charges, was apprehended by university ROTC cadets who had been trained in emergency response procedures. The cadets reportedly used their training to neutralize the threat before law enforcement could secure the area.
Old Dominion University has maintained an active ROTC program that includes military tactics and emergency response training. Campus officials have previously emphasized the program's role in preparing students for various emergency scenarios.
The university campus was placed on lockdown following the incident, with local police, FBI and federal homeland security officials responding to the scene. The Virginia State Police also assisted in the investigation.
The Investigation
The suspect has been charged with multiple federal terrorism-related offenses, including providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. Prosecutors allege the individual had expressed sympathy for ISIS and planned the attack to cause maximum casualties on the campus.
FBI agents are continuing to investigate the suspect's background, communications and potential ties to international terrorist organizations. Federal prosecutors have indicated that additional charges are expected as the investigation progresses.
The Justice Department's National Security Division is overseeing the prosecution, working in conjunction with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Officials say the case presents significant federal terrorism charges that could result in life imprisonment if convicted.
Key Takeaways
- Old Dominion University ROTC cadets disarmed the suspected shooter during the incident
- The suspect allegedly shouted 'Allahu Akbar' during the attack and expressed support for ISIS
- The individual has been charged with federal terrorism-related offenses including providing material support to a terrorist organization
- FBI and federal authorities are investigating potential ties to international terrorism
- No casualties were reported in the incident, with officials crediting the swift ROTC intervention
What's Next
The suspect is expected to make an initial appearance in federal court in Norfolk. Federal prosecutors will pursue terrorism-related charges under the material support statute, with additional counts anticipated as the investigation continues.
FBI agents are conducting a thorough investigation into the suspect's communications, financial transactions and potential network connections. The Justice Department has indicated that the case remains under active investigation with more details expected to emerge in the coming weeks.