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Old Dominion University Shooting: 2 Injured, Gunman Dead in Tragedy
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NORFOLK, Va.
A devastating day unfolded at Old Dominion University on Thursday morning when a gunman opened fire inside Constant Hall, leaving two ROTC members critically injured and the shooter dead. The incident sent shockwaves through the campus community and prompted an immediate, large-scale emergency response.
University officials confirmed that the shooting occurred at approximately 10:50 a.m., triggering urgent alerts that instructed students and staff to follow Run-Hide-Fight protocols. The victims, both members of the university’s Army ROTC program, were rushed to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in critical condition.
“We are deeply saddened from the active shooter incident that occurred at Old Dominion University on March 12, 2026,” the U.S. Army Cadet Command stated. “We can confirm that two members of the university ROTC program were shot and were taken to a local hospital to treat their injuries.”
The gunman was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the shooter or disclosed a possible motive, as investigations continue.
Chaos Inside Constant Hall
Students described terrifying moments as the shooting unfolded. Old Dominion University sophomore Logan Hayes was inside Constant Hall taking a test when the fire alarm suddenly went off. He initially believed it was a drill—until he stepped outside.
“I heard about a multitude of gunshots go off and people just screaming,” Hayes told WAVY. He described the immediate police response, with officers quickly arriving to secure the area and ensure students were moved to safety.
The emergency prompted a campus-wide lockdown. By 12:15 p.m., Old Dominion University officials issued an all-clear notification, confirming the threat had ended. However, they urged everyone to avoid the area around Constant Hall as investigators continued their work.
University President Responds
Old Dominion University President Brian Hemphill, Ph.D., released a heartfelt statement addressing the tragedy.
“Earlier today, March 12, 2026, Old Dominion University faced a tragedy on our main campus. I am grateful for the swift response of our police officers, emergency management personnel, and our partners at the City of Norfolk who promptly assisted the injured,” Hemphill said.
He announced that all classes and operations on the main campus were canceled for the remainder of the day. A Family Information Center was established in Chartway Arena’s Big Blue Room, and counseling services were made available at Broderick Dining Commons. Students were also directed to online mental health resources, including ODU Counseling Services and the Talk Campus peer support community.
“The safety of our campus community is my top priority,” Hemphill added. “We are deeply committed to safeguarding all Monarchs and ensuring a secure learning, living, and working environment at all times.”
Community on Edge
The shooting also affected nearby schools. Norfolk Public Schools confirmed that Larchmont Elementary, James Monroe Elementary, and W.H. Taylor Elementary were placed on secure hold as a precaution. Additionally, students from nearly every Norfolk high school were on Old Dominion University‘s campus for SOAR tours when the incident occurred. Officials confirmed all students were safely sheltered in place and accounted for.
“We are following established safety protocols,” a Norfolk Public Schools spokesperson said. “Due to the increased police presence, we ask that parents avoid the area at this time.”
Federal Assistance and Ongoing Investigation
The FBI is assisting local law enforcement in the investigation. FBI Director Kash Patel posted on X, stating, “FBI personnel are providing assistance and working with local authorities responding to the shooting at Old Dominion University. We will update as able.”
Norfolk Police and university officials scheduled a press conference for 2 p.m. at the Education Building to provide further updates.
A Campus United in Grief
As the sun set over Old Dominion University, students gathered in small groups, processing the day’s events. The Broderick Dining Commons, usually a place for casual meals, became a refuge for those seeking comfort and counseling.
“People were screaming,” Hayes recalled. “It’s something you never expect to experience on your own campus.”
The tragedy marks yet another painful chapter in America’s ongoing struggle with gun violence, this time striking close to home for the Monarchs community. Old Dominion University now faces the difficult road ahead: healing, supporting the injured, and seeking answers.
For now, the campus remains quiet—a stark contrast to the chaos of the morning—as students, faculty, and staff lean on one another in the aftermath of an unthinkable day.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.