Deadly ODU draws reactions from Virginia, national leaders

NORFOLK, Va. — A shooting at Old Dominion University on Thursday has prompted reactions from Virginia leaders and officials at the national level.

The active shooter situation was reported around 10:49 a.m. ODU says a gunman opened fire in Constant Hall. ODU officials say two people were injured as a result, they are both in critical condition.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger said her administration is in close contact with the local officials responding to the scene.

On social media, FBI Director Kash Patel said his department is aware of the situation and assisting local law enforcement:

At 12:20 p.m., Old Dominion University President Dr. Brian Hemphill put out the following statement:

"Dear Monarchs:

Earlier today, March 12, 2026, Old Dominion University faced a tragedy on our main campus. I am grateful for the swift response of our police officers, emergency management personnel, and our partners at the City of Norfolk who promptly assisted the injured.

Due to the incident, Old Dominion University has canceled classes and suspended operations on main campus for the remainder of the day, March 12, 2026. Due to the ongoing investigation, please avoid the area in and around Constant Hall and continue to follow instructions from ODU Alerts. Family Information Center is available in Chartway Arena’s Big Blue Room.

Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to go to Broderick Dining Commons for lunch and counseling support. Talk Campus—a 24/7 peer support community—and other online counseling services and resources are also available for students at www.odu.edu/counseling-services [odu.edu]. More information will be provided by the Division of Student and Campus Life. For immediate assistance, please call (757) 683-4401. Additional updates will be shared through ODU Alerts and posted on the ODU homepage at www.odu.edu [odu.edu].

The safety of our campus community is my top priority. We are deeply committed to safeguarding all Monarchs and ensuring a secure learning, living, and working environment at all times. We take this responsibility very seriously and remain vigilant in our efforts to maintain a safe campus. I extend my thoughts and prayers to those impacted by the incident, as well as the entire campus and the broader community."

Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones put out the following statement:

“My deepest thoughts, prayers, and support go out to the Old Dominion community as they continue to learn more and process this tragedy,” said Attorney General Jones. “I applaud the quick action of Old Dominion University Police, Norfolk Police, and emergency personnel on the ground to neutralize the threat and restore safety to campus. My office continues to work closely with the university and stands ready to support local law enforcement as they continue the investigative process. We encourage students and families to follow the direction of law."

Virginia Rep. Jen Kiggans sent News 3 the following statement:

"As we await answers to this awful tragedy, my thoughts and prayers are with the students, faculty, and families at Old Dominion University this afternoon. I’m grateful to our law enforcement for their swift response and I hope you will join me in praying for the two individuals who were injured."

Virginia Rep. Bobby Scott sent News 3 the following statement:

“I was horrified to learn of the violent tragedy that occurred at Old Dominion University this morning. I am thankful for the first responders who were able to neutralize the shooter before they could perpetrate any further violence."

“While we are still gathering the facts of the situation, my thoughts are with the victims and their families. Everyone should feel safe in their communities and students should feel safe on campus.  We must do everything we can to prevent these all-too-common tragedies of gun violence.”

Virginia Sen. Mark Warner said he is "closely monitoring" the shooting at ODU: