(photo via http://demo-sports-news.aobrien.org)

It was an average Friday morning at Noblesville West Middle School, a quiet suburban area of Indianapolis. That is until a male student in a seventh-grade science classroom asked his teacher, Jason Seaman, if he could be excused. Moments later, the student returned … armed with two handguns.

Seaman stepped into action in an effort to protect the students' lives. The male student, who hasn't yet been identified, fired shots inside the classroom, injuring a 13-year-old female student and sent three bullets through Jason Seaman’s body. Seaman a former Southern Illinois University defensive lineman, tackled the shooter to the ground, disarming him.

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The female victim, Ella Whistler, was airlifted in critical condition to IU Health Riley Hospital in Indianapolis. Reports from her parents and the NWMS principal said she is improving.

Seaman suffered bullet wounds after being shot in the hip, forearm and abdomen. He’s now out of surgery and in recovery.

#NoblesvilleWest science teacher and seventh-grade football coach Jason Seaman, who stopped school shooter, is 6’6” and was a defensive end at @SIUFootball2. He made the tackle of his life.

— Eric Berman (@WIBC_EricBerman) May 25, 2018

A press conference yesterday was Seaman’s first time speaking on the tragedy.

 

The current science teacher and football coach at the school is adored by his students. They expressed their gratitude to him on Twitter:

an amazing teacher, a favorite to many MANY students, an inspiration, and most importantly a true hero. thank you for what you have done today, you’re the reason for many of the students lives that could’ve been taken today. we love you and thank you mr.seaman❤️ pic.twitter.com/sxROFNbF0v

— Jenna Halbert (@jennabean05) May 26, 2018

I remember every time we had a code red drill in 7th grade Mr. Seaman always told us he would take a bullet for anyone of his students and how he would do whatever he could to protect us. What a true hero to live up to that promise. Words can’t describe how much we love you❤️

— Abbie Tank (@abbietank) May 25, 2018

“not all superheroes wear capes” thank you @SeamanNWMS and @NobSchools faculty! 💞 pic.twitter.com/No2FeqZQSB

— aubrie ginther (@aubriiiieeee) May 28, 2018

The students had an emotional reunion with their beloved teacher at a sectional championship baseball game between Noblesville and Hamilton Southeastern high schools on Monday.

 

Parents of current and former students were also grateful to Seaman’s courageous act.

Always knew he was a wonderful coach! Not surprised at all that he is now a hero. Thank you Jason Seaman! pic.twitter.com/DGJznGun6Y

— Joan Lawrence (@JLawrence1016) May 26, 2018

2Day I learned that #SuperHeroes really exist. They don’t have costumes or flashy names. They are simply known as our kids teachers. @NobSchools #Noblesville #WAT #SeamanStrong

— Ron Bowen (@rbowe1) May 25, 2018

To our kids, their teachers are their World. To caring parents, teachers are our heroes. Thank you Jason Seaman, thank you. #Noblesville #Indiana #VoteThemOut #Resist #NeverAgain

— BCarrz (@bcarrz) May 25, 2018

Seaman played football at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois from 2007-2010. The Salukis honored their former player on Twitter. 

HERO | Former #Salukis defensive lineman Jason Seaman (2007-10) is being hailed as a hero. A science teacher in Noblesville, IN — he took a bullet this morning to protect his students. https://t.co/2A19N6zeS8 pic.twitter.com/Wle8BVKyv1

— Saluki Football (@SIU_Football) May 25, 2018

Monday, the "hometown hero" was honored by hundreds at the Indianapolis 500 Victory Celebration.

Standing Ovation for Hometown Hero. IndyCar drivers and guests honor Noblesville middle school teacher Jason Seamon at Indy 500 Victory Celebration. .@rtv6 pic.twitter.com/8VYD42vR3q

— Rafael Sánchez (@RafaelOnTV) May 29, 2018