Dramatic moment Oklahoma principal Kirk Moore tackles Columbine-obsessed school shooter while being shot

Published: Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at 7:58 am

Oklahoma Principal's Bravery Thwarts School Shooting

Pauls Valley High School Principal Kirk Moore is being hailed as a hero after a harrowing incident last Tuesday. Surveillance footage shows Moore, 60, tackling a former student, Victor Lee Hawkins, who was armed with two loaded semi-automatic pistols. Hawkins, 20, allegedly entered the school lobby and opened fire, striking Moore in the leg.

According to court documents, Hawkins had expressed a desire to harm Moore and had ordered students to the ground before attempting to fire at them. His weapon malfunctioned before he aimed at another student. Moore, responding to the commotion, confronted Hawkins. The footage captures the moment Hawkins fired at Moore before the principal bravely charged and tackled him.

Moore pinned down Hawkins' hand, preventing him from firing his weapon. Another adult male then intervened, assisting in disarming the shooter. Law enforcement officials have praised Moore and school staff for their swift actions, which they believe saved lives.

Hawkins has admitted to stealing the guns from his father and confessed to wanting to replicate the Columbine school shooting. He has been charged with shooting with intent to kill and other firearm-related charges. He is scheduled to appear in court on May 8. Principal Moore is reportedly recovering well after being hospitalized.

BNN's Perspective:

This incident underscores the critical role school staff play in protecting students. While the bravery of Principal Moore is undeniable, it also highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address school violence, including mental health support for students and stricter gun control measures.

Keywords: school shooting, Oklahoma, principal, hero, Victor Lee Hawkins, Kirk Moore, Pauls Valley High School, Columbine, gun violence, firearm, arrest, shooting with intent to kill, school safety

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