HOUSTON, Texas — An 11-year-old boy, identified as Julian Guzman, was tragically shot and killed in southeast Houston after a door-knock prank turned deadly. Police say the shooter, 42-year-old Leon Gonzalo Jr., opened fire after his home was targeted in the viral “ding-dong-ditch” prank — a TikTok-inspired trend where kids knock or kick on doors and run away.
What Happened
According to investigators, Julian and at least two of his friends had been running around the neighborhood late Sunday, banging on doors as part of the prank. When they reached Gonzalo’s residence, the man allegedly rushed outside with a firearm.
“Our witness says the suspect came out of the door, ran out into the street and was firing down the road,” a Houston Police Department spokesperson said.
One of the bullets struck Julian in the back as he attempted to run away. He collapsed about a block from the scene before being rushed to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Charges and Police Response
Gonzalo was taken into custody and charged with murder. Police emphasized that the circumstances do not suggest any credible threat to the suspect’s safety.
“In my opinion, it doesn’t look like any type of self-defense,” the officer added.
Authorities say Gonzalo appeared to fire indiscriminately, endangering not only the children but also neighbors who lived along the street.
A Devastated Community
Julian’s death has left his family and community in mourning. Relatives described him as a playful, loving child who had a bright future ahead of him. Community members have set up a growing memorial near the site of the shooting, with flowers, candles, and stuffed animals honoring the 11-year-old’s memory.
Neighbors expressed both grief and outrage. “They were just being kids. That man had no right to take a child’s life over something so harmless,” one resident said.
Dangerous Trend With Deadly Consequences
The shooting adds to a troubling string of incidents nationwide tied to the “door-kick” or “ding-dong-ditch” challenge circulating on TikTok and other platforms. While the trend is often intended as a harmless prank, it has led to heated confrontations, property damage, and now — tragic loss of life.
Experts warn that the mix of viral internet challenges and heightened tensions around property safety can create volatile situations. In heavily armed communities, pranks that might once have drawn annoyance or laughter now risk violent outcomes.
Moving Forward
As Gonzalo awaits trial, Julian’s family is calling for justice. Community leaders are also urging parents to talk with children about the dangers of certain viral challenges and the unpredictable ways people may respond.
“This tragedy should never have happened,” one local pastor said at a community gathering. “Julian’s life was stolen because of anger and a gun. We owe it to him to make sure no other family goes through this again.”
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