A man has been charged with murder after a boy was shot and killed during a “ding dong ditch” prank in Houston, Texas, on September 2, 2025. The incident occurred Saturday night, when 11-year-old Julian Guzman was struck in the back by gunfire while running from a home after ringing the doorbell. Gonzalo Leon Jr., 42, was arrested Tuesday by a SWAT team and is now jailed in Harris County.
- Man charged with murder in boy’s shooting death
- 11-year-old Julian Guzman died from gunshot wound
- Shooting occurred during "ding dong ditch" prank
- Witnesses saw suspect shoot at fleeing kids
- Initial suspect detained but later released
- Prank-related shootings have occurred in other states
Police say Guzman was part of a group playing the prank, which involves ringing a doorbell and running away. Witnesses reported someone exited the targeted house and shot at the children as they fled. Guzman was wounded, taken to a hospital, and died on Sunday. Authorities initially detained a man at the scene for questioning but released him after seizing several firearms. The suspect, Gonzalo Leon Jr., was identified as the shooter and is charged with murder. This case echoes recent deadly incidents linked to “ding dong ditch” pranks, including a 2023 California case and a May Virginia shooting. Houston police say the circumstances do not suggest self-defense, and investigations continue.
- Gonzalo Leon Jr. was arrested Tuesday and charged with murder.
- Julian Guzman, 11, died after being shot in the back while fleeing.
- Witnesses saw someone shoot at children from the targeted house.
- Authorities seized multiple firearms during the investigation.
This tragic event underscores the dangers of seemingly harmless pranks and the importance of safety awareness. Authorities continue to investigate the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Next steps include ongoing legal proceedings against Gonzalo Leon Jr. and community efforts to prevent similar tragedies.
