The Woodrow Wilson High School community is in mourning following the tragic death of Wornan Padilla Garcia, an 18-year-old senior and prominent member of the school’s soccer team. Garcia died Thursday afternoon, January 22, 2026, after being struck by a gunshot during what police describe as an accidental discharge at a nearby park.

The Incident at Winters Park

The shooting occurred at approximately 3:45 p.m. in the parking lot of Willis C. Winters Park, located directly across the street from the high school campus on South Glasgow Drive.

• Investigation Details: Dallas police sources indicate that Garcia and another Woodrow Wilson student were “playing with a gun” when the firearm accidentally discharged.
• Police Response: A second Woodrow Wilson student was taken into custody at the scene. While the suspect’s name has not been released due to their age and the ongoing nature of the investigation, they remain in police custody.
• Campus Impact: The incident prompted an immediate lockdown of Woodrow Wilson High School and impacted dismissal at nearby J.L. Long Middle School.

Remembering Wornan Padilla Garcia

Garcia was a beloved figure at “Heisman High,” known for his athletic talent on the soccer field and his status as a senior preparing for graduation. Dallas ISD officials have confirmed that additional counselors and precautionary patrols will be present on campus through the remainder of the week to support grieving students and staff.

Legacy of Woodrow Wilson High School

Woodrow Wilson High School, a historic Dallas institution opened in 1928, is often recognized for its prestigious alumni and unique traditions. The school is the only high school in the nation to claim two Heisman Trophy winners—Tim Brown and Davey O’Brien. This tragedy has deeply affected a community that takes immense pride in its history and its “Wildcat” spirit.