Texas High School Football Player Arrested After Allegedly Shooting Teammate In Bedroom Hours After State Championship Win
DALLAS, TEXAS — An 18-year-old football player at South Oak Cliff High School has been arrested after allegedly shooting a teammate in the neck with an AR-15 rifle inside a home just hours after the team celebrated its Texas state championship victory. Police identified the suspect as Xavier Mayfield, who is now charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
Shooting Occurred While Teammates Reviewed Photos From Earlier Game
Investigators say the shooting happened inside a bedroom, where several football players had gathered to look at photos and videos from their championship game earlier that day. During that gathering, Mayfield allegedly picked up an AR-15 rifle, which he claimed was on safety.
According to officers, Mayfield told investigators the shooting was accidental, stating that the rifle discharged unexpectedly. However, a teammate reported to police that he saw Mayfield swinging the rifle before it fired, contradicting Mayfield’s version of events. The victim, who has not been publicly identified, was struck in the neck. Authorities have not released the victim’s current medical condition.
Investigators Unsure Who Owned The Rifle Or Why It Was Being Handled
Police say it remains unclear who owned the AR-15, why the weapon was inside the home, or why it was being handled by multiple teenagers following the game. Detectives are working to determine how the gun was obtained and whether additional charges may be filed.
Authorities also noted that despite Mayfield’s claim that the safety was engaged, the rifle fired a live round, striking the teammate at close range. The bedroom scene was processed by crime investigators, who collected the rifle and additional evidence for testing.
Community Shocked After Celebration Turns Into Hospital Visit
The South Oak Cliff community had been celebrating the school’s championship win only hours before the shooting. Parents and students expressed shock that a night meant for celebration turned into a police investigation. Mayfield was later taken into custody after speaking with officers and admitting to firing the weapon, though he continued to insist the shooting was unintentional.
Investigation Ongoing As Police Await Victim Updates
Police say the full scope of charges may depend on the victim’s recovery and the results of the ballistic and forensic analysis. As of now, Mayfield remains charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a felony offense.
Authorities have not announced whether anyone else may face legal consequences regarding possession of the firearm. Residents with information about the incident are encouraged to contact investigators and follow updates at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
