According to the local police chief, Kirk Moore, principal of Pauls Valley High School in Oklahoma, "saved students' lives" by rushing to subdue a gunman.

Police reported that suspect Victor Lee Hawkins, 20, entered the school lobby on the afternoon of 7/4 with two semi-automatic handguns, ordering everyone to lie on the floor. He attempted to shoot a student, but the firearm malfunctioned.

After clearing the malfunction, he fired at another student but missed.

Two students pleaded for their lives and were allowed to leave, with other students following. At that moment, principal Kirk Moore emerged from a nearby door, tackling Victor and pushing him onto a bench. With one hand, Kirk seized Victor's weapon, causing it to fall to the floor, while his other hand restrained the gunman. A school manager also rushed to assist, kicking the firearm away.

School security cameras captured the principal subduing the gunman. Video: *NBC*

Victor, a former student, described Principal Kirk as someone he "disliked". According to prosecutors, Victor stated his intention to carry out a shooting at his former school, emulating the two shooters responsible for the 1999 Columbine High School massacre in Colorado, which killed 14 victims.

Investigators reported that Victor admitted taking two handguns belonging to his father without permission. He stated his intention to kill students, teachers, and the principal before committing suicide.

According to authorities, Principal Kirk was shot in the leg during the confrontation with the suspect and required hospitalization. In an update on 10/4, the principal announced he was "doing well and recovering", hoping to return to work as soon as possible. Kirk also expressed gratitude for the "love and support" received following the incident.

Pauls Valley Police Chief Don May credited Principal Kirk's actions with preventing a tragedy and saving many lives.

Principal Kirk attributed his response to training. "Like many educators across the country, we prepare for these events through training and careful threat assessment", he said.

According to jail records, Victor is currently detained on a 1 million USD bond. He faces charges of shooting with intent to kill, pointing a firearm, and carrying a weapon in a public place. Victor is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on 8/5.

Tue Anh (according to NBC News)