Norfolk Campus UNDER SIEGE—Gunman Stopped by Police

A gunman opened fire on Old Dominion University’s Norfolk campus in broad daylight, leaving two victims fighting for their lives before law enforcement neutralized the threat—yet another reminder that our institutions remain vulnerable despite the promise of safer communities under renewed leadership.

Story Snapshot

Gunman opened fire in Constant Hall at Old Dominion University on March 12, 2026, injuring two people before being neutralized by responding officers
University police, Norfolk police, and ATF agents responded immediately, securing the campus within hours of the 10:50 a.m. attack
Both victims were transported to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in critical condition as the 24,000-student campus shut down operations
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger mobilized state resources while university officials opened family support centers and counseling services

Campus Under Fire in Business College Building

The shooting erupted shortly before 10:50 a.m. Eastern Time inside Constant Hall, the primary facility for Old Dominion University’s College of Business on the Norfolk campus. University officials immediately issued an active threat alert, instructing students and faculty to follow “Run-Hide-Fight” protocols as gunfire rang out during normal business hours. The gunman opened fire on two individuals, both of whom suffered critical injuries requiring immediate hospitalization. This attack disrupted what should have been a routine Thursday morning for the approximately 24,000 students enrolled at this urban public institution in Virginia.

Swift Law Enforcement Response Neutralizes Threat

University police arrived on scene within minutes, supported by Norfolk Police Department officers and ATF special agents who coordinated efforts to secure the building and surrounding areas. Responding officers neutralized the gunman, who died at the scene, preventing further casualties in what could have escalated into a mass shooting event. The rapid response reflects lessons learned from previous campus tragedies, though it underscores ongoing concerns about soft targets in educational settings. By early afternoon, officials issued an all-clear message, confirming no ongoing threat remained on campus. The victims were transported to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital where they remained in critical condition as of initial reports.

University Mobilizes Crisis Support Systems

ODU President Brian O. Hemphill immediately canceled all classes and operations on the main Norfolk campus for the remainder of Thursday, prioritizing safety over academic schedules. University officials opened a Family Information Center at Chartway Arena and established counseling services at Broderick Dining Commons, providing 24/7 peer support accessible via phone. Hemphill released a statement emphasizing that safety remained the top priority while extending thoughts and prayers to affected families. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger contacted university leadership and mobilized state support resources for ODU and the Norfolk community, demonstrating coordinated response across governmental levels during the crisis.

Questions Remain About Motive and Security Protocols

As of initial reports, authorities had not released identities of the gunman or victims, nor disclosed any motive behind the attack. The lack of preceding threats or warning signs raises questions about how campuses can better identify potential dangers before violence erupts. This incident will likely prompt reviews of security protocols at ODU and similar institutions, though the quick resolution prevented the prolonged standoffs seen in other campus shootings. For parents and students nationwide, the reality remains troubling: even with improved response times, gun-free zones continue to attract those intent on harm. The investigation remains ongoing with ATF involvement, suggesting potential federal angles related to firearms or broader criminal activity.

Impact on Campus Community and Beyond

The shooting immediately affected the daily lives of thousands of students, faculty, and staff who found themselves thrust into lockdown procedures during what began as an ordinary school day. Beyond the immediate trauma, the incident will have lasting psychological effects on the ODU community and may influence enrollment decisions for prospective students. Local businesses near campus suffered economic disruption from the shutdown, while taxpayers will bear costs associated with emergency response, investigation, and expanded counseling services. The event reinforces national concerns about vulnerability in public spaces, even as Americans hoped for improved security under current leadership focused on law and order rather than the failed policies of previous administrations.