Oklahoma Principal Tackles Armed Former Student at High School

Heroic principal subdues shooter, preventing tragedy

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:40pm

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An extreme close-up of a semi-automatic pistol magazine, its metallic surface reflecting the harsh flash of the camera against a pitch-black background, conveying the gritty, investigative nature of this crime scene.A chilling reminder of the dangers schools face, this stark image of a seized weapon evokes the urgency of the principal's heroic actions.Pauls Valley Today

A newly released video shows the principal of Pauls Valley High School in Oklahoma charging and tackling a 20-year-old former student who had entered the school with two loaded semi-automatic pistols, ordered people to the ground, and attempted to carry out a Columbine-style shooting. The principal, Kirk Moore, was shot in the leg during the struggle but was able to disarm the shooter and pin him down until police arrived, preventing further violence.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the bravery and quick thinking of school leaders who are often forced to confront active shooter situations, as well as the ongoing challenges schools face in protecting students from gun violence. The principal's actions likely saved lives and prevented a potential mass shooting.

The details

According to court records, the former student, Victor Lee Hawkins, had planned the attack and specifically targeted Principal Kirk Moore, whom he "did not like." Hawkins allegedly stole his father's guns, drove his father's truck to the school, and "wanted to conduct his own school shooting like the Columbine shooters did." When Hawkins entered the school and opened fire, Moore charged him, tackled him, and disarmed him with the help of the assistant principal. Moore was shot in the leg during the struggle but was later released from the hospital and is recovering.

  • The incident occurred on April 7, 2026 at Pauls Valley High School.
  • Hawkins' next court date is scheduled for May 8, 2026.

The players

Kirk Moore

The 60-year-old principal of Pauls Valley High School who tackled and disarmed the armed shooter, sustaining a gunshot wound to his leg in the process.

Victor Lee Hawkins

A 20-year-old former student of Pauls Valley High School who allegedly planned and carried out the attack, intending to conduct a Columbine-style school shooting.

Don May

The Pauls Valley Police Chief who stated that Moore's actions prevented a tragedy and saved lives.

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What they’re saying

“It doesn't surprise me the actions that he took, but it is amazing, the actions that he took. There's not a doubt in my mind that he saved kids' lives.”

— Don May, Pauls Valley Police Chief

“Like so many educators around the country, we prepare for these events through training and careful assessment of the threats. I am grateful that my instincts and training, as well as God's hand, were available to me.”

— Kirk Moore, Principal, Pauls Valley High School

What’s next

Hawkins is being held on charges including shooting with intent to kill, and his next court date is scheduled for May 8, 2026.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the bravery and quick thinking required of school leaders who are forced to confront active shooter situations, as well as the ongoing challenges schools face in protecting students from gun violence. The principal's actions likely saved lives and prevented a potential mass shooting, highlighting the importance of preparedness and the role educators can play in responding to such crises.