Oklahoma Principal Kirk Moore Honored as Prom King After Heroic School Shooting Intervention

In a heartwarming display of gratitude and admiration, students at Pauls Valley High School in Oklahoma crowned their principal, Kirk Moore, as prom king just weeks after he tackled an armed gunman to protect students and staff. The recognition came in the form of a viral video showing Moore being celebrated by cheering students as Nickelback’s “Hero” played in the background.

Moore, a district employee with over 35 years of service, intervened on April 7, 2026, when 20-year-old Victor Lee Hawkins entered the school lobby with two loaded semi-automatic pistols. According to an affidavit obtained by The Oklahoman, Hawkins intended to carry out a shooting reminiscent of the Columbine attack. Moore rushed toward the commotion after hearing gunfire, and as Hawkins turned and pointed a weapon at him, Moore tackled the gunman, sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg in the process.

Surveillance footage released by authorities shows Moore shoving Hawkins toward a bench and pinning him down until another staff member arrived to assist. The armed suspect dropped his weapon during the struggle and was later taken into custody by Pauls Valley Police Department. Officials praised Moore’s actions, with the department stating his “amazing heroic actions” had “saved lives.” Superintendent Brett Knight also publicly called Moore a hero.

The prom king tribute took place on April 17, 2026, during a school event where students erupted in applause as Moore was announced the winner. Dressed in a sports coat, he walked through the crowd exchanging high-fives before being crowned amid chants and celebration. The gesture was organized by students who felt existing honors did not fully reflect their appreciation for his bravery and decades of dedication to the school community.

Moore, aged 60 at the time of the incident, has since become a symbol of courage and selflessness in the face of danger. His actions have been widely shared across national media outlets, highlighting not only his split-second decision to confront the threat but also the profound impact he has had on generations of students at Pauls Valley High School.

As of April 21, 2026, Moore continues to recover from his injuries while receiving ongoing support from the community, including a growing GoFundMe campaign launched in his honor. His story remains a powerful reminder of the vital role educators play in safeguarding their schools—and the deep bonds that can form between students and those who protect them.