An Oklahoma high school principal is being celebrated for his heroism after he took a bullet while confronting an armed former student. This courageous act is believed to have prevented a potentially horrific event.
Principal Kirk Moore of Pauls Valley High School was shot in the leg as he, alongside other staff members, intervened to stop the gunman, identified as 20-year-old Victor Hawkins, according to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
OSBI spokesperson Hunter McKee stated, “The principal of the school had noticed that an adult male subject, 20 years old, had stepped foot into the school with a gun. When the principal noticed this, he quickly stepped in with other staff. The subject was able to fire multiple rounds, injuring the principal, but no one else was harmed.”
🚨 OKLAHOMA HERO! Principal Kirk Moore TACKLED a would-be mass shooter at Pauls Valley High School, took a bullet to the leg but DROPPED the gunman cold.
Expected to be OK. Saved lives like a boss! Hero! pic.twitter.com/TS2Tt4x6mp
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) April 9, 2026
Moore was airlifted to a hospital and is now reported to be in stable condition. Officials commend the immediate actions of the staff and the principal as crucial in saving lives.
The incident unfolded around 2:21 p.m., leading to a lockdown on campus as law enforcement worked to secure the scene. Students were later safely reunited with their families.
Moore and the staff successfully subdued Hawkins until police arrived to take him into custody.
Paul’s Valley Superintendent Brett Knight described Moore’s actions as heroic. “I know the word gets thrown around quite a bit, but he is a hero today,” he told reporters at the scene.
Governor Kevin Stitt praised Moore’s quick thinking and bravery, expressing his gratitude for the protection of students. “Sarah and I are praying for his quick recovery. I’m thankful for the swift response from law enforcement and school staff, and I’m grateful no students were harmed,” he stated.
As for Hawkins, investigators have not released a motive, but he remains in custody at the Garvin County Jail. He faces charges including shooting with intent to kill, carrying a weapon to a public assembly, and two counts of feloniously pointing a firearm, with bond set at $1 million.
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