Old Dominion University shooting leaves 2 injured, gunman dead

By Shirleen Guerra
The Center Square

Old Dominion University suspended classes and operations on its main campus Thursday after a shooting at Constant Hall left two people injured and the gunman dead, according to emergency alerts issued by the university.

An alert sent at 10:48 a.m. warned of an “active threat” at Constant Hall and told people on campus to follow run-hide-fight protocols while emergency personnel responded.

University officials later said a gunman opened fire shortly before 10:49 a.m. Old Dominion University Police, Norfolk Police and other emergency personnel responded to the scene.

Two people were injured and taken to a local hospital, according to an incident update posted by the university.

A later alert said the shooter had been “neutralized,” and the university canceled classes and operations on the main campus for the remainder of the day.

Officials asked the public to avoid the area in and around Constant Hall while emergency personnel continue working at the scene.

First-term Democratic Gov. Abigail Spanberger said she had spoken with university leadership and was closely monitoring the situation.

“My administration remains in close contact with local emergency responders as state support is being mobilized to assist ODU and Norfolk,” Spanberger said.

Norfolk police said officers were responding to the incident at the university and that the investigation is ongoing.

FBI Director Kash Patel said federal agents are assisting local authorities responding to the shooting.

“FBI personnel are providing assistance and working with local authorities responding to the shooting at Old Dominion University,” Patel said. “We will update as able.”

Authorities have not yet released additional details about the victims or the shooter.