An Oklahoma high school principal tackled a gunman and was shot in the leg during a confrontation at Pauls Valley High School last week, authorities said. The incident unfolded on April 7 when 20-year-old Victor Lee Hawkins, a former student, entered the school armed with two semiautomatic handguns.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Principal Kirk Moore confronted Hawkins after the suspect fired at students and faculty. Moore tackled Hawkins from behind, removed a gun from his hand, and held him down with the help of an assistant principal. Moore was shot in the leg during the struggle and was hospitalized but is recovering. Hawkins was arrested and charged with multiple counts, including shooting with intent to kill.
Deeper Dive & Context
Suspect's Motives and Background
According to an arrest affidavit, Hawkins admitted he wanted to conduct a school shooting similar to the 1999 Columbine massacre. He allegedly took the firearms from his father without permission and intended to kill students, faculty, Moore, and himself. Investigators said Hawkins had a personal grudge against Moore, whom he described as someone he “did not like.”
School Security and Response
Newly released video shows someone opening a door for Hawkins, but authorities do not believe the individual was working with the suspect. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) confirmed there are no other suspects in the case. The shooting prompted a lockdown until law enforcement cleared the scene. Moore and other staff subdued Hawkins until officers arrived.
Legal and Community Response
Hawkins was charged with one count of shooting with intent to kill, one count of carrying a weapon into a public assembly, and two counts of feloniously pointing a firearm. Moore expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and is expected to return to work soon. The incident has sparked discussions about school security and the role of staff in emergency situations.