Old Dominion University Shooting: Gunman Dead, Two Injured at Constant Hall in Norfolk, Virginia

A shooting incident at Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, has left two people injured and the gunman dead, authorities said Thursday. The incident unfolded shortly before 10:49 a.m. on March 12, when a gunman opened fire inside Constant Hall, a building that houses ODU’s College of Business.

University officials alerted students and staff to an “active threat” on campus, instructing them to follow safety protocols such as “run‑hide‑fight” as police and emergency responders rushed to the scene. Law enforcement quickly intervened, and within about an hour officials declared there was no remaining threat to the campus community.

Two people were shot in the attack and transported to a local hospital, where they were reported to be in serious or critical condition. The identities of the victims have not yet been publicly released, and university and police officials have provided limited information as the investigation continues.

The gunman was confirmed dead, though authorities have not disclosed whether the person died by suicide or was killed by responding officers. An “all‑clear” message was issued later in the day, and classes and campus operations were canceled for the remainder of Thursday as officials worked to secure the area around Constant Hall.

Local and state law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are supporting the ongoing investigation. Old Dominion University President Brian O. Hemphill called the shooting a “tragedy” and thanked first responders for their rapid action.

As the community reacts to the news, students and faculty expressed shock at the disruption of normal campus life. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as classes were abruptly halted and shelter‑in‑place orders were issued.

Campus safety officials and local authorities are expected to release additional information as it becomes available. In the meantime, students and families have been urged to remain informed through official university communications and local news outlets.

This shooting marks another tragic episode of gun violence on a U.S. college campus, underscoring ongoing concerns about campus security and the unpredictable nature of active‑shooter incidents. Authorities continue actively investigating the motive and full circumstances behind the attack