Two Terror-Related Attacks Shake the U.S.: Virginia University Shooting and Michigan Synagogue Assault Under Investigation

Shooting at Old Dominion University, Virginia

A deadly shooting occurred at Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, when a gunman opened fire inside a classroom during a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) session.

According to investigators, the suspect has been identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former Army National Guard member who had previously served prison time for attempting to support the Islamic State.

Authorities say the attacker entered the classroom shortly before 11 a.m., asked if it was an ROTC class, and then began shooting. One person was killed and two others were injured in the attack.

Several ROTC students quickly intervened and subdued the gunman, preventing further casualties. The suspect later died at the scene. The FBI has confirmed it is investigating the incident as a terrorist attack.

Following the shooting, the university canceled classes and placed the campus under lockdown before issuing an all-clear notice later in the day.

Attack on Temple Israel Synagogue, Michigan

On the same day, a separate violent incident occurred at Temple Israel, a large synagogue in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan.

Authorities say a suspect rammed a vehicle into the synagogue building and exchanged gunfire with security personnel. The vehicle caught fire during the incident, creating heavy smoke.

The attacker was killed during the confrontation with security. Officials reported that a security officer was injured and around 30 first responders were treated for smoke inhalation, though no children or staff were seriously harmed.

More than 140 children and staff members were inside the building at the time of the attack but were safely evacuated. The FBI has described the event as a targeted act of violence against the Jewish community and is continuing its investigation.

Authorities Monitoring Situation

Both incidents occurred within hours of each other, but officials have not indicated any connection between them. Federal and local law enforcement agencies are continuing investigations to determine motives and any possible links to extremist activity.

Community leaders across the country have condemned the violence and called for increased security around educational institutions and places of worship.

By India2USA News Desk
Published: March 12, 2026