Shooting at Old Dominion University: Gunman Opens Fire on Campus, Students Flee Amid Panic
A shocking campus shooting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk caused panic among students and staff after a gunman opened fire inside a university building, triggering alarms and forcing people to run for safety.
The incident quickly prompted an emergency response from campus security and local law enforcement, while the university issued urgent safety alerts to those on campus.
The shooting occurred inside Constant Hall, an academic building primarily used for business classes at Old Dominion University.
According to reports, gunshots were heard during the morning hours while students were attending classes and exams. Witnesses described scenes of confusion and fear as people realized an active shooter situation was unfolding.
Within moments, alarms sounded throughout the building and students began evacuating classrooms. Others locked doors or hid under desks and behind furniture to protect themselves.
The university quickly sent an active-threat alert advising students and staff to follow the emergency safety protocol commonly known as “Run, Hide, Fight.”
Authorities confirmed that two people were injured during the shooting and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Officials also reported that the gunman died during the incident, though investigators have not yet released full details about how the suspect died.
Police later declared that there was no longer an active threat on campus and issued an “all clear” notification to the university community
Following the shooting, law enforcement officers secured the area around Constant Hall and temporarily locked down parts of the campus.
Emergency responders, including campus police and city authorities in Norfolk, worked quickly to evacuate buildings, assist victims, and ensure no additional suspects were involved.
University officials later announced that classes and campus activities would be cancelled for the rest of the day while investigators processed the scene.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the Old Dominion University shooting, including:
The identity of the gunman
The possible motive behind the attack
How the firearm was obtained
Whether the suspect had any connection to the university
Law enforcement agencies are expected to release additional details as the investigation progresses.
The shooting left many students shaken after experiencing the frightening events firsthand. Witnesses reported hearing screams, alarms, and people running through hallways as the situation unfolded.
University officials said counseling and mental-health support services will be available for students and staff affected by the incident.
The shooting at Old Dominion University highlights ongoing concerns about safety on college campuses across the United States.
While universities have implemented emergency alert systems, lockdown procedures, and safety training, incidents of gun violence in educational settings continue to raise national debate about security and prevention measures.
As investigators work to determine what led to the attack in Norfolk, the university community is focused on recovery and ensuring the safety of students and staff.