ODU releases independent report on March 12 shooting that killed ROTC instructor, injured multiple students

Old Dominion University on Tuesday released an independent report examining the March 12, 2026, campus shooting that killed an ROTC instructor and wounded multiple students, concluding the attack was a targeted act of terrorism that would have been “difficult if not impossible to prevent.”

The report, prepared by the law firm Cooley LLP, follows a comprehensive review of the university’s response to the tragedy, including interviews with members of the campus community and an examination of documents, surveillance video and other evidence. University officials said the firm had full independence over the report’s findings and recommendations.

The shooting claimed the life of Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, a longtime ROTC instructor, while several students were injured. According to the report, Lt. Col. Shah and ROTC cadets demonstrated “extraordinary heroism and bravery” during the attack, with students acting “heroically, skillfully and swiftly” to prevent greater loss of life.

Old Dominion President Brian O. Hemphill said the university released the report with only limited redactions necessary to protect student privacy.

Read more: WVEC