A shooting occurred in a parking lot on the Old Dominion University (ODU) campus in Norfolk, Virginia, on February 26, 2025, Wednesday night, injuring two individuals, according to local police and university officials. Sadly, both victims later died from their injuries.

Norfolk Police reported a 9:40 p.m. shooting on W. 49th St. The victims, not affiliated with ODU, were taken to Sentara Norfolk General, where they later died, per ODU Police Chief Garrett Shelton.

Norfolk Police Chief Mark Talbot expressed his sorrow regarding the incident: “We are deeply saddened by the unnecessary violence that occurred overnight on the campus of Old Dominion University. Students attend a university to learn and deserve to feel safe in their environment while doing so.” He emphasized the strong collaboration between the Norfolk Police and ODU Police: “Chief Sheldon and I will continue to work closely together to ensure that our teams have the resources they need to hold those who are responsible for this violence accountable for their actions.”

The incident has raised safety concerns among students on campus. Malachi Murray, an ODU student, shared his reaction of fear upon learning about the shooting. “Honestly, I felt a bit intimidated. I immediately reached out to all my friends in the area to make sure they were okay. It was frightening.” Murray was working at the Webb Center when he found out about the shooting. “We were all surprised when we saw the police arrive outside. We were curious about what was happening, and it was really upsetting to learn the details.”

When asked if this incident changed his feelings about safety on campus, Murray expressed mixed emotions. “I was definitely worried about walking home afterward, but overall, I’m not too concerned about ODU’s day-to-day safety. I know there are incidents that can happen, and I trust that ODU PD does what they can, but I feel like their jurisdiction is limited.”

Another ODU student, Curtis Jordan, echoed similar feelings of concern. “I was honestly shocked, especially because it was so close to home. It really blew my mind.” Jordan was in his dorm when he heard the news. “I was just in my room when I found out, and I couldn’t believe it. I started calling my friends to check on them since a few said they were heading to Brod.”

Discussing his sense of safety after the incident, Jordan admitted feeling uneasy. “Personally, I don’t really feel safe right now. I’m glad they’ve increased the police presence around campus, but knowing that something like this happened so close is still pretty scary.”

ODU reminds students of safety resources like Safe Ride and emergency call boxes. Officials have not released suspect or motive details. Norfolk Police urge tips via Crime Line or P3 Tips. Check WAVY News for updates.

The university reminded students of safety resources like the ODU Safe Ride program and campus emergency call boxes, with more details available on the ODU Police Department can be found on the ODU Police Department website.

Old Dominion University on campus shooting, February 26, 2025

Broderick Dining Hall