A celebratory atmosphere shattered into shock last weekend in Dallas, Texas, following a high school football victory. Hours after securing a state championship, a player from Dallas South Oak Cliff High School found himself facing a serious criminal charge.
Xavier Mayfield, 18, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon on Saturday, December 20th. The incident unfolded around 9:30 p.m., casting a dark shadow over the team’s recent triumph.
Earlier that day, Dallas South Oak Cliff, a dominant force in Texas high school football, had defeated Richmond Randle 35-19 to win the Conference 5A Division II state championship. This victory marked their fifth consecutive appearance in the title game, a testament to their consistent excellence.
The alleged assault occurred within a bedroom shared with another teammate, as detailed in an arrest warrant affidavit. The three were reportedly looking at photos taken earlier that day, reliving the excitement of their championship win.
A witness stated he left the room and immediately saw Mayfield swinging a rifle. Mayfield maintained the weapon’s safety was engaged, a claim quickly challenged by the unfolding events.
A single gunshot pierced the air moments later. Mayfield admitted to firing the weapon, but insisted it was accidental. He told investigators he turned toward his teammate and the gun discharged.
According to Mayfield’s account, the rifle went off immediately after he turned. He then attempted to transport his injured teammate to the hospital, but the severity of the wound – and the amount of blood – prompted him to call 911 instead.
The victim was rushed to a local hospital and is currently listed in stable condition. The incident has sent ripples of concern through the community and the school district.
Mayfield was initially held on a $50,000 bond at the Dallas County Jail, but has since been released. The investigation continues as authorities piece together the events of that night.
