A teenage American football star in Texas has been charged with a serious felony after he accidentally shot a fellow teammate, mere hours after the pair celebrated a state championship victory together.
Championship Celebration Turns to Tragedy
The incident unfolded at a house party on the outskirts of Dallas, following South Oak Cliff High School's 35-15 victory over Richmond Randle to clinch the Conference 5A Division II state title. According to police documents obtained by local media, 18-year-old defensive back Xavier Mayfield was recklessly handling a rifle at the gathering.
A witness told investigators they saw Mayfield swinging the weapon around before leaving the room. Mayfield allegedly assured the witness the firearm's safety was engaged. However, moments later, as the witness departed, a single shot rang out.
The Accidental Discharge and Aftermath
Police state that the shooting occurred when Mayfield's teammate called his name. As Mayfield turned towards him, the AR-15 style rifle he was holding discharged. The bullet struck his teammate in the neck.
Mayfield reportedly first attempted to drive the injured player to hospital himself but, upon realising the severity of the bleeding, called emergency services. Paramedics and police found Mayfield still at the scene when they arrived. The victim, who has not been publicly named, was transported to hospital and is now listed in a stable condition.
Legal Repercussions and Community Response
Xavier Mayfield, a senior who plays as a strong and free safety and recorded an interception in the championship game, now faces severe legal consequences. He has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, an offence that carries a potential prison sentence of two to 20 years.
Mayfield was released from the Lew Sterrett Justice Center in Dallas after posting a $50,000 bond. Dallas City Councilman Maxie Johnson, representing the South Oak Cliff area, commented on the tragedy, calling it a mistake and an accident with no malicious intent. He emphasised that the incident should not detract from the community's ongoing work.
The shocking event has cast a shadow over the school's sporting triumph and ignited discussions about gun safety and responsibility among young adults.
