Man charged in 11-year-old boy's ding dong ditch death in Houston: Report
Share this @internewscast.com

(NEXSTAR/AP) – In Houston, a man has been charged with the fatal shooting of an 11-year-old boy after a prank in which the boy rang a home’s doorbell and ran away, as reported by CNN on Tuesday morning.

Leon Gonzalo Jr., 42, has been charged with murder, CNN reported, citing Harris County court records.

The boy had been ringing doorbells as a prank late Saturday evening, the Houston Police Department said in a statement.

This prank, known as “ding dong ditching,” involves running off before anyone in the home answers the door. According to CNN, which quoted the police, a witness stated that the boy was fleeing the scene when he was shot.

The boy, who has not yet been identified, died of his wounds Sunday, police said.

Police spokesperson Shay Awosiyan said that officers were still investigating.

Similar “ding dong ditch” pranks have previously resulted in fatalities. In 2023, a Southern California man was convicted on three counts of first-degree murder for killing three teenage boys by deliberately crashing into their car after they had rung his doorbell as a prank.

Additionally, in May, a man in Virginia was charged with second-degree murder for shooting an 18-year-old who had rung his doorbell while filming a TikTok video of the prank, as reported by the New York Times.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Dorie, Joppy, and Molly Seek Loving Homes: Join Tails and Paws Event This Saturday

In the heart of the Tri-Cities, a heartwarming initiative unfolds every Saturday.…

Parkway Village Shooting: MPD Officer Injured – Latest Updates on Investigation

In a distressing turn of events in Memphis, Tennessee, the police have…

Unlocking the Power of Electrolyte Supplements: Who Truly Needs Them and When?

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Social media is buzzing with influencers sharing their opinions…

Aussie Golf Duo Green and Lee Dominate LPGA Singapore After Thrilling Round 3

Australian golfers Hannah Green and Minjee Lee surged to the forefront of…

Remembering Renee Good: A Heartfelt Tribute to Her Joyful Spirit and Legacy

DENVER – Renee Good was a beacon of joy and celebration in…

Supreme Court Case on Gun Ownership for Marijuana Users Forges Unlikely Alliances

WASHINGTON – In the United States, gun rights and cannabis legalization often…

Shocking Footage Reveals Child Abuse by Marion County Daycare Worker, Authorities Report

In a disturbing revelation, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office has released surveillance…

Controversial Tactics: ICE Agents Impersonate Police, Sparking Concerns Over Public Trust Erosion

NEW YORK – At 6:32 a.m. on Thursday, a 911 call reported…

Kentucky Fugitive Accused of Kidnapping and Attempted Murder Captured in Buchanan County

The Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of a fugitive wanted…

Warriors’ Path State Park Invites Your Input on New Trails Project; Join Us in March

KINGSPORT, Tenn. – In an effort to engage the community, Tennessee State…