DOJ Charges Man for Selling Gun to ODU Shooter, Urgent Update

URGENT UPDATE: Federal authorities have charged Kenya Chapman for selling a stolen firearm to Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, who opened fire at Old Dominion University on March 13, 2026, killing Army Lt. Col. Brandon Shah and wounding two others. This shocking incident unfolded in a classroom filled with active duty servicemembers and ROTC students, highlighting a grave concern about gun access.

Court documents reveal that Jalloh, who was taking online classes at the university, confirmed the ROTC nature of the event twice before beginning his attack. The tragedy struck during a routine class, turning what should have been a day of learning into chaos and heartbreak.

Chapman, who confessed to stealing the weapon from a car in Newport News, Virginia, stated he sold it to Jalloh, believing he needed it for protection as a delivery driver. Jalloh, a former member of the Army National Guard, is a convicted terrorist who had been released from federal custody in December 2024, just over a year before the shooting. Authorities are investigating the implications of Chapman’s actions, as Jalloh was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his felony conviction.

The shooting resulted not only in the tragic loss of Lt. Col. Shah, a respected leader and devoted family man, but also left one victim in critical condition. Thankfully, that individual has since been upgraded to fair condition, while the other injured party was treated and released.

U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized the severity of Chapman’s alleged crime, stating, “Chapman allegedly stole a firearm and illegally sold it to a convicted terrorist, who murdered a decorated American veteran.” He assured the public that justice would be served.

Authorities faced challenges tracing the gun, as its serial number was partially obliterated. However, investigators utilized phone records to establish a connection between Chapman and Jalloh, revealing multiple calls in the week leading up to the shooting. Chapman had previously been investigated for straw purchases in 2021, leading to a warning letter from federal authorities, although he was ultimately not prosecuted.

The swift response from ROTC students, who subdued Jalloh, prevented further casualties. The FBI commended their bravery, while police confirmed that less than ten minutes elapsed between the first reports of the shooting and Jalloh’s death.

As the community mourns the loss of Lt. Col. Shah, emotional tributes pour in. Friends and family express their grief and love, with heartfelt memorials at the university’s Constant Hall, where the shooting occurred. Shah was a dedicated leader who had returned to ODU after serving in multiple combat zones. His legacy as a protector and mentor will not be forgotten.

This tragic shooting raises important questions about gun access and public safety in educational environments. The investigation continues, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.