Oklahoma Principal Kirk Moore Tackles Gunman, Prevents Mass Shooting

Principal Kirk Moore tackled and disarmed a gunman after a former student entered the school armed with two pistols.

“Oklahoma high school principal takes down would-be shooter, hailed as hero The Pauls Valley High School principal took down the former student”

ABC News

Moore was shot in the lower right leg during the struggle but was able to tackle Hawkins to the ground.

ABC News

An assistant principal helped secure the weapon and remained on top of Hawkins until law enforcement arrived.

No students were physically harmed.

Hawkins told detectives he intended to carry out a mass shooting inspired by Columbine and that he did not like Principal Moore.

Surveillance video shows the dramatic confrontation as Hawkins began firing a pistol.

The gun jammed after the first shot, allowing students to escape.

ABC7 Los Angeles

Moore charged at Hawkins without hesitation, tackled him, disarmed him, and held him down until law enforcement arrived.

Hawkins admitted he stole the firearms from his father and that he did not like Principal Moore.

Moore credited training and instincts for his reaction.

Pauls Valley Police Chief Don May said there was no doubt Moore saved lives.

“Dramatic video shows Oklahoma high school principal tackle, disarm gunman as students flee Dramatic video shows Oklahoma high school principal tackle, disarm gunman as students flee OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Newly released video shows a high school principal in Oklahoma tackling and disarming a former student who entered the lobby of the school and began firing a pistol”

Associated Press

The Oklahoma superintendent of public instruction thanked Moore for his bravery.

Hawkins was booked into the Garvin County Jail on multiple charges.

The incident unfolded in a community of about 6,000 people.

Moore expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support.