NORFOLK, VA—The FBI solemnly recognizes the extraordinary bravery and selfless heroism of Lt. Col. Brandon A. Shah following the tragic terrorist attack at Old Dominion University on March 12, 2026.
Today marks one week since this senseless act of violence, and the FBI’s investigation remains active and ongoing. As part of our investigative efforts, FBI Special Agents worked in lockstep with the Norfolk Police Department to conduct extensive interviews of students and witnesses who were present during the attack. During these interviews, witnesses consistently described Lt. Col. Shah’s courage, recounting how he confronted and fought the attacker to protect his cadets. Their first-hand accounts underscore the selflessness and valor he demonstrated in the face of imminent danger.
On the morning of March 12, when an armed assailant entered his classroom in Constant Hall, Lt. Col. Shah acted without hesitation. In the face of grave danger, he courageously confronted the attacker, placing himself between the threat and his cadets. His decisive and selfless actions exemplified the very principles he instilled in others and undoubtedly contributed to the protection of countless lives.
The FBI continues to recognize the extraordinary bravery of Lt. Col. Shah’s cadets. In a moment that demanded immediate action, they ran toward danger, not away from it—subduing the attacker and bringing an end to the threat. Their decisive actions ensured there was no further loss of life and saved countless others from harm. In doing so, they not only stopped a terrorist attack but stood together in defense of one another and in honor of their professor, whose leadership and example guided them in that critical moment. Lt. Col. Shah’s legacy endures in the strength and character of his cadets, in the community he served, and in the lives saved through his actions.
Resources: www.fbi.gov/OldDominionUniversityVictims