Heroic Principal Tackles Gunman in Pauls Valley School Shooting: Why Proper Active Shooter Response Training Matters
- Jacob Spencer
- May 13
- 2 min read
On April 2026, a terrifying incident unfolded at Pauls Valley High School in Oklahoma. What started as a typical day turned chaotic when a 20-year-old former student, Victor Hawkins, entered the school armed and began shooting.
Pauls Valley High School Principal Kirk Moore, 60, acted with extraordinary courage. Hearing gunshots right outside his office, he rushed toward the threat without hesitation.
“It was a typical day until the gunshot outside of my office,” Moore told CBS News. “In 37 years, you go through trainings and drills and what you should do. That all goes out the window… I’m glad it worked out the way it did.”
Moore tackled the gunman. The two fell, and the suspect fired multiple rounds into the floor. The principal was shot but didn’t immediately realize it. Thanks to his decisive action, no students or other faculty members were injured.
Moore later reflected on the instinctual nature of his response while acknowledging the role of prior training and drills. His heroism has earned widespread praise, including letters from around the world and recognition from his students, who crowned him prom king. The community has rallied behind him, with significant donations directed toward a scholarship fund for graduates.
Hawkins was arrested at the scene and faces multiple charges, including shooting with intent to kill. He remains in custody.
Lessons from Pauls Valley: Preparation Saves Lives
This incident reminds us that school shootings and active shooter events can happen anywhere — even in smaller Oklahoma communities. While we celebrate Principal Moore’s bravery, we must also recognize that instinct alone is not enough. Effective training turns potential chaos into controlled, life-saving action.
At A-TAC Academy, we believe that realistic, scenario-based training equips individuals — whether educators, security professionals, law enforcement, or armed citizens — to respond effectively when seconds matter.
Train with A-TAC Academy: Response to Active Shooter Course
Our Response to Active Shooter training is designed specifically for these high-stakes situations. This hands-on course goes beyond basic “Run, Hide, Fight” awareness. Participants learn practical tactics including:
Rapid threat assessment and decision-making under stress
Movement, cover, and evacuation strategies
Team and individual response protocols
Integration with tactical medical skills (our popular Tac-Med course covers hemorrhage control, trauma care, and immediate response in active shooter/mass casualty events)
Realistic scenario drills in a safe, controlled environment
Whether you’re a school administrator, security officer, business owner, or concerned parent, this training builds the muscle memory and confidence needed to act decisively — just as Principal Moore did.
Our expert instructors deliver small-class, personalized instruction at our modern facility in Oklahoma City. All training emphasizes safety, realism, and real-world application.
Don’t wait for “what if” to become reality. Give yourself and your team the tools to protect lives when it matters most.
Enroll in our Response to Active Shooter course today or contact us to schedule private group training for your school or organization.
A-TAC Academy
1211 Sovereign Row, Oklahoma City, OK 73108
📞 (572) 216-0550
We offer CLEET-approved security certifications, annual requalifications, continuing education, American Red Cross CPR/First Aid/AED, and specialized tactical courses. Training the next generation of defenders is our mission.
This incident in Pauls Valley shows the difference one prepared person can make. Let A-TAC Academy help prepare you.
Stay safe, stay trained.
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