OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – Newly released video footage has revealed the heroism of Kirk Moore, the principal of Pauls Valley High School in Oklahoma, who tackled and disarmed a former student during a shooting incident on April 7, 2026. This alarming event unfolded when a gunman entered the school lobby and began firing a pistol, causing panic among students and faculty alike.
Principal Moore was shot in the leg during the confrontation but demonstrated remarkable courage and quick thinking. Despite his injury, he managed to wrestle the assailant onto a bench and successfully disarm him, remaining in control until law enforcement officers arrived on the scene. The quick response of Moore undoubtedly played a pivotal role in preventing further tragedy, as no students were injured during the attack.
Video evidence, released by the school district in compliance with an Open Records Act request, shows the gunman, dressed in a dark hooded sweatshirt, entering the school and pointing his handgun at two students. After he discharged his weapon, Principal Moore sprang into action, tackling the suspect while the students managed to flee the area. Another school staff member subsequently kicked the firearm away and secured it until the authorities arrived.
Following the shooting, Hunter McKee, a spokesperson for the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, emphasized the life-saving actions taken by school staff. "The actions of the staff and the principal stepping in as soon as they saw a subject with a firearm saved lives today," McKee stated, highlighting the critical nature of Moore's intervention during this life-threatening situation.
Authorities apprehended 20-year-old Victor Lee Hawkins, who is identified as a former student of Pauls Valley High School. Hawkins faces several serious charges, including unlawfully carrying a firearm, shooting with intent to kill, and pointing a firearm. During his interrogation, he reportedly expressed his intentions to kill both students and Principal Moore, and even referenced plans to commit a mass shooting reminiscent of the infamous Columbine massacre in 1999.
Hawkins has entered a plea of not guilty concerning the criminal charges filed against him. His court-appointed attorney, Tyson Stanek, has declined to make further comments on the case, adhering to the policies of the Oklahoma Indigent Defense System. As it stands, Victor Lee Hawkins remains in custody at Garvin County Detention Center, held on a bond set at $1 million.
Pauls Valley, a small community with a population of approximately 6,000, is situated about 60 miles south of Oklahoma City. The harrowing events of that day have left a significant impact on the local community, as they come to terms with the potential for tragedy that was averted through the bravery of Principal Moore and his staff.
Clearly, the swift actions taken during the incident not only showcased the incredible courage of one individual but also highlighted the importance of preparedness and vigilance in school safety. The release of the video serves as a sobering reminder of the realities faced by educational institutions today and the vital role that teachers and administrators play in protecting their students.
