Oklahoma high school principal shot while tackling gunman to protect students, officials say
An Oklahoma high school principal is recovering after being shot while confronting a gunman who allegedly entered the school with a firearm and threatened students.
Video obtained from Pauls Valley Public Schools shows Principal Kirk Moore rushing a man in a black hoodie who was pointing a gun inside the school’s front lobby. In the footage, a nearby individual raises their hands as Moore tackles the suspect and pins him to a bench. Another person then takes the weapon from the suspect. Investigators believe Moore was shot during the struggle.
The incident occurred around 2:20 p.m. on April 7, prompting an immediate lockdown at Pauls Valley High School. Authorities said the scene was secured by about 3:15 p.m., and students were safely reunited with their families. No students or other staff members were injured.
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation said the actions of school staff helped prevent further harm.
“Because of the efforts of the school staff, they stopped Hawkins from potentially injuring other staff members and students,” the agency said in a statement.
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt praised Moore for his response, calling his actions courageous and noting that no students were harmed.
Moore was listed in stable condition following the shooting and later released a public statement saying he hoped to return to work as soon as possible. He credited his training, instincts, and community support for helping him respond during the attack.
“Pauls Valley schools are safe communities unaccustomed to the type of threat we witnessed on Tuesday,” Moore wrote. “Nevertheless, 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 on Tuesday.”
Classes at the high school were canceled for two days following the shooting.
Authorities identified the suspect as 20-year-old Victor Hawkins, a former student, who was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including shooting with intent to kill, two counts of pointing a firearm, and carrying a weapon to a public assembly. He is being held on a $1 million bond and is scheduled to appear in court on May 8.
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