FBI Probes U.S. Terror Incidents After “Allahu Akbar” Shouted in University Shooting That Killed Army Officer; Michigan Synagogue Targeted Hours Later!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan, Editor-in-Chief | Sele Media Africa

Authorities in the United States are investigating two violent incidents that occurred within hours of each other on March 12, 2026—an attack at Old Dominion University in Virginia that left a U.S. Army officer dead, and a separate vehicle-ramming attack targeting Temple Israel Synagogue.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said the incidents are being examined as potential acts of terrorism amid heightened tensions connected to ongoing geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East.

Army Officer Killed in Virginia University Shooting

According to investigators, the suspect—identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh—opened fire inside a classroom at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. Witnesses reported that the gunman shouted “Allahu Akbar” before shooting members of the university’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).

The attack killed Brandon Shah, a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army and military science professor who served as an ROTC instructor. Two ROTC cadets were also injured during the incident.

Authorities confirmed that students inside the classroom managed to subdue the attacker before police arrived, an intervention officials say likely prevented additional casualties.

The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force has since launched a full investigation into the shooting, which has prompted the university to suspend classes temporarily while security reviews are conducted.

Synagogue Targeted in Michigan Hours Later

Just hours after the Virginia shooting, another violent incident occurred at Temple Israel Synagogue, one of the largest Reform Jewish congregations in the United States.

Authorities say Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, a 41-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Lebanon, drove a vehicle into the synagogue complex, which also houses a preschool. Security personnel shot and killed the attacker during the incident.

While no civilians or children were seriously injured—despite about 140 children being present in the preschool—one security guard was struck by the vehicle and approximately 30 responding officers were hospitalized for smoke inhalation following a fire triggered by the crash.

The FBI is investigating the episode as a targeted attack on the Jewish community, with officials raising concerns about rising threats against religious institutions across the country.

Security Heightened Nationwide

Following the two attacks, U.S. authorities increased security at both Jewish and Muslim places of worship as a precaution. Officials also acknowledged that the incidents occurred amid heightened international tensions linked to recent military confrontations involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Government leaders and community representatives have condemned the violence while urging calm and vigilance. Law enforcement agencies continue to analyze whether the two attacks were connected or represent separate acts of extremism.

Broader Concerns Over Domestic Security

Security analysts warn that the near-simultaneous attacks highlight the persistent threat of politically or religiously motivated violence within the United States. The events have renewed debate about campus security, counter-terrorism strategies, and the protection of religious institutions.

Investigations by federal and local authorities remain ongoing.

Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, The Guardian, AOL News

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

www.selemedia.org