A potentially deadly school shooting in Oklahoma was stopped by quick action and courage, after a high school principal tackled an armed former student inside the campus, authorities said.
The incident took place on April 7 at Pauls Valley High School, when 20-year-old Victor Lee Hawkins, a former student, entered the building carrying two handguns. According to investigators, he intended to carry out a mass shooting.
Surveillance footage and witness accounts show Hawkins entering the school and pointing a firearm at students in the lobby. At one point, he attempted to shoot a female student, but the weapon malfunctioned, preventing immediate tragedy.
Moments later, Principal Kirk Moore rushed toward the gunman. Despite being shot in the leg during the confrontation, Moore tackled Hawkins and wrestled him to the ground. Another staff member quickly joined in, helping to disarm and restrain the suspect until police arrived.
Authorities say Moore’s actions likely saved multiple lives. No students were injured in the incident.
Motive: “Some kind of beef”
In the aftermath, Hawkins’ father shed light on what may have driven the attack. He told NBC News that his son had “some kind of beef” with the principal, suggesting a personal grievance may have played a role.
Investigators also revealed that Hawkins had been planning the attack in advance. He allegedly took the firearms from his father’s home before driving to the school with the intention of killing students, staff, and himself.
Officials say Hawkins showed signs of being influenced by past school shootings, including the 1999 Columbine massacre, which has inspired other attackers in the past.
Charges and aftermath
Hawkins has been arrested and faces multiple felony charges, including shooting with intent to kill and firearm-related offenses. He is currently being held on a $1 million bond and is scheduled to appear in court in early May.
Principal Moore was hospitalized for his injuries but is expected to recover. Law enforcement and community members have widely praised his bravery, calling his actions decisive and life-saving.
Police officials emphasized that the incident highlights the importance of preparedness and rapid response in school safety situations. In this case, those measures—combined with Moore’s intervention—prevented what could have been a far more tragic outcome.
