A high school principal in Oklahoma saved students from a potential mass shooting by tackling a would-be shooter despite being shot in the leg.
Pauls Valley High School Principal Kirk Moore was struck by gunfire during an attempted attack at the school on Wednesday, but he swiftly wrestled the gunman to the ground, disarming him with the help of an assistant principal. The incident was captured on surveillance footage.
Victor Lee Hawkins, a 20-year-old former student who had planned a Columbine-style shooting, walked into the school lobby and ordered students to the floor before attempting to fire. After a malfunction in his firearm, he opened fire but missed his target. Two students pleaded for mercy and were allowed to leave safely.
Moore sustained a leg wound from the incident and was hospitalized, but officials reported that he is now recovering. Hawkins has been charged with multiple serious offenses, including shooting with intent to kill, feloniously pointing a firearm, and carrying a weapon to a public assembly.
In an affidavit, Hawkins admitted to taking two semiautomatic handguns belonging to his father without permission. He stated his intention was to kill students, faculty members, and himself.
Pauls Valley Police Chief Don May praised Moore’s actions, stating, “There’s not a doubt in my mind that he saved kids’ lives.”
Moore, who is healthy and recovering, expressed hope of returning to work soon after the incident.
