Shooting Incident at ODU
“I’m just happy to be alive,” said Zachary Mulder, an ODU student who experienced the terrifying moments during a shooting at Old Dominion University on March 12, 2026.
The incident occurred around 10:49 a.m. in Constant Hall, an academic building on campus, where two people were injured. The gunman is reported to be dead following the incident, although the cause of his death remains unconfirmed.
The shooting unfolded during a midterm exam period, adding to the chaos as students were preparing for their assessments. Witnesses described a sudden commotion, with one student, Jennifer, recalling, “All of a sudden we heard a commotion. A lot of people rumbling, starting to get up.” This reaction highlights the panic that ensued as the situation developed.
In response to the shooting, the Norfolk Police Department was quickly on the scene, and classes were canceled for the rest of the day to ensure the safety of students and staff. The university also sent out an active threat alert via email to inform students of the situation.
The injured victims were promptly taken to a local hospital for treatment. Details regarding their conditions have not been released, and the exact number of people present during the shooting is unclear.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. The university community is left grappling with the aftermath of this shocking incident, which has raised concerns about campus safety.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the circumstances surrounding the gunman’s death and the motivations behind the shooting. The ODU community is expected to hold discussions on safety measures in the coming days as they seek to address the fears and uncertainties stemming from this event.
