CA, US & World
ROTC Cadets Who Stopped ODU Shooter Speak Out for First Time After Deadly Classroom Attack
Army ROTC cadets who stopped a deadly shooting at Old Dominion University are speaking publicly for the first time, sharing dramatic details of how they acted in a life-or-death situation.
The attack happened March 12 inside a classroom at Constant Hall, where authorities say gunman Mohamed Bailor Jalloh opened fire. Their instructor, Brandon Shah, was killed, and two others were injured.
Cadets described how chaos erupted as shots were fired. While many initially took cover, several quickly moved to stop the gunman. One cadet said he ran toward the attacker with a pocket knife, joining others who wrestled the suspect to the ground. Multiple cadets worked together to disarm and ultimately stop the shooter.
Despite being shot, cadet Louis Ancheta continued to fight, later receiving a Purple Heart for his actions. Others administered first aid, created a tourniquet for their instructor, and helped guide law enforcement to the scene.
The FBI is investigating the incident as a terrorist attack. Authorities say the suspect had a prior conviction related to providing support to ISIS and had been released from prison before enrolling at the university.
Cadets say their training—and the leadership of Lt. Col. Shah—played a critical role in how they responded under pressure. Many credited Shah’s actions in confronting the attacker as the reason others survived.
In the aftermath, questions have been raised about campus safety and security measures, as university officials and faculty review how the shooter was able to access the classroom.
The cadets’ actions are now being recognized as heroic, highlighting both the risks faced during the attack and the split-second decisions that helped prevent further loss of life.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: CNN Newsource
April 9, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
A troubling history is coming to light in a Palm Desert husband’s death. 65-year old Vicky Kim is accused in the death of her husband — but prosecutors say she had previously faced several domestic violence cases involving him. The Riverside County District Attorney’s Office says it had secured protective orders against Kim before a judge later resolved her cases as misdemeanors, released her from custody and terminated those orders. Now, Kim is expected to be arraigned in connection with her husband’s death. Court records allege the weapon used was a flagpole.
☕️🔥 How hot is TOO hot? A new study finds that drinking scalding-hot beverages may be linked to nearly 3 times the risk of esophageal cancer—the most common type of cancer affecting the esophagus. The takeaway? Let that coffee, tea or other hot drink cool down before taking a sip. ❤️ #HealthNews #EsophagealCancer #CancerRisk #HotBeverages #Coffee #Tea #CancerAwareness #HealthyHabits #HealthTips
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. The squishy craze!
Coachella city council unanimously approved an anti-nepotism rule that ban an any Councilmember from appointing a family member or household member to the city’s commissions and committees. Tune in to our 11 p.m newscast as our @newsbyalondra breaks down the policy.
An anti-nepotism rule will be discussed and voted on at tonight’s Coachella City Council meeting - that would ban city council members from appointing their own family members or household members to commissions and committees. Tune in to our 8:30 p.m newscast and our socials and website as our @newsbyalondra brings us the latest details on that final vote.
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. What’s your favorite NFL team?
A major cleanup is underway after powerful waves damaged 14 beachfront homes near Capistrano Beach in Orange County. Residents are concerned their homes could remain vulnerable without protective measures in place. Crews are clearing debris, while efforts to bring in protective boulders were delayed by high tide. #California #OrangeCounty #CapistranoBeach #CoastalWaves #Beachfront #WeatherNews
Two new Girl Scout cookies are coming in 2027 🍪 Meet Sparkables: a crunchy oatmeal cookie with chocolate chips and colorful sprinkles, developed with Partake in a facility designed to avoid the nine major food allergens. And for the pups: Patch Pals 🐾 Soft-baked, blueberry muffin-flavored dog cookies in four adorable designs. Both will be available online beginning in January. Which one are you most excited to try? #GirlScouts #GirlScoutCookies #NewCookies #DogTreats #FoodAllergyFriendly #CookieSeason
It’s more than just dancing — it’s fitness, confidence and community. A Coachella Valley dance studio is helping adults move their bodies, have fun and step into their power, one class at a time. And during Beyoncé’s birthday week, the energy was turned all the way up. “When in doubt, twerk it out.” See how VXN Worldwide Dance Company is getting the Valley moving — and building confidence along the way. Read more at NBCPalmSprings.com. #CoachellaValley #PalmSprings #Dance #Fitness #Community NBCPalmSprings
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. What are you going to be for Halloween? 🎃