A teenage American football player in Texas has been taken into custody, accused of shooting a fellow team member just hours after they celebrated a state championship victory together.
Championship Celebration Turns to Tragedy
Xavier Mayfield, an 18-year-old senior at Dallas South Oak Cliff High School, faces a serious charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. This follows his admission to police that he accidentally shot his teammate with an AR-15 style rifle. The incident occurred on Saturday, shortly after the school's football team secured the Conference 5A Division II State Championship with a 35-19 win over Richmond Randle.
According to a police affidavit seen by Fox4News.com, Mayfield, the victim, and another teammate were in a bedroom looking over photos from the game earlier that day. Witness statements indicate the other teammate left the room to shower and saw Mayfield "swinging the rifle" involved in the incident.
Details of the Accidental Discharge
Mayfield reportedly told officers that the firearm's safety mechanism was engaged, but the weapon discharged regardless, striking the victim. The police document does not clarify who owned the gun or explain why Mayfield was handling it. Authorities have not publicly named the injured player, and his current medical condition remains unknown.
Mayfield himself is a strong safety for the championship-winning team and even recorded an interception during the decisive Saturday game.
Community Reaction and School Legacy
Dallas Independent School District has not yet released an official statement regarding the shooting. Dallas City Councilman Maxie Johnson, whose district includes the school, described the event as a tragic mistake when speaking to reporters.
"And sometimes, when they're away from us, mistakes happen. Of course, I heard it was an accident. There was nothing malicious going on," Johnson stated. "Unfortunately, this happened, but this does not take away from the work that has gone on and the work that we will continue to do together."
He added, "We have great kids at South Oak Cliff High School. Our kids have bright futures, and we're praying for them and know that they're going to be successful."
The high school has a notable sporting pedigree, having produced Basketball Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman and several professional American football players in the NFL. This incident casts a shadow over what should have been a weekend of pure celebration for the school community.
