A shooter opened fire on the campus of Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, killing one person and injuring two others before being subdued and killed by ROTC students, authorities confirmed.
Background
The shooting occurred on the university's main campus in Norfolk, Virginia. According to initial reports from local law enforcement, the armed suspect entered a campus building and began firing at approximately midday. The incident prompted an immediate response from university police and Norfolk Police Department, who arrived on scene within minutes of the first emergency calls.
The victims have been identified as students or staff members at the university, though their names have not been released pending notification of family. Two individuals were transported to a local hospital with gunshot wounds. Their conditions remain unknown at this time.
Old Dominion University, located in Norfolk, is one of Virginia's largest public universities with an enrollment of approximately 24,000 students. The university maintains an ROTC program that trains cadets in military tactics and procedures.
The Investigation
Norfolk Police Department is leading the investigation into the shooting, with assistance from the FBI and Virginia State Police. Authorities are working to establish a clear timeline of events, including how the shooter obtained the weapon and what prompted the attack.
The ROTC students who intervened are being praised for their quick action. Investigators are collecting physical evidence from the scene, including security camera footage from multiple buildings on campus. The shooter has not been identified publicly pending notification of next of kin.
University President Brian O. Hemphill issued a statement confirming the tragic incident and praising the response of campus security and ROTC students. The university has canceled all classes for the remainder of the day.
Key Takeaways
- One person dead, two injured following shooting on Old Dominion University campus in Norfolk, Virginia
- Armed suspect was subdued and killed by ROTC students who intervened during the attack
- Norfolk Police Department, FBI and Virginia State Police investigating; no motive established
- University president confirms incident, praises response of ROTC students and campus security
- Classes canceled for remainder of day; campus remains under investigation
What's Next
Investigators expect to release additional details about the victims and the shooter in the coming days. The Norfolk Police Department will hold a press conference as more information becomes available. The university is coordinating with counseling services to provide support to students and staff affected by the shooting.
The investigation will focus on determining the shooter's motive, obtaining any possible manifesto or social media posts, and reviewing security footage to piece together the sequence of events. Authorities are also interviewing witnesses, including the ROTC students who confronted the shooter.