What was meant to be a lighthearted game for neighborhood kids turned into a heartbreaking tragedy in Houston over the weekend.
An 11-year-old boy lost his life after playing the classic “ding-dong-ditch” prank with friends, prompting authorities to charge a local man with murder.
Neighbor Charged Following Fatal Shooting
Leon Gonzalo Jr., 42, was charged with murder on Tuesday morning, according to court records reviewed by Daily Mail.
He is expected to appear in court later the same day. Gonzalo lives in the same Houston home where the fatal shooting took place Saturday night.
The Prank That Went Terribly Wrong
The children had been playing ding-dong-ditch, a game where participants knock on doors or ring doorbells and run away before anyone answers.
During the prank, a neighbor reportedly came out and began firing at the kids as they fled.
Young Boy Struck and Hospitalized
The boy was hit in the back and rushed to a local hospital with multiple gunshot wounds.
Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead on Sunday afternoon, leaving the community in shock.
Police and Witness Statements
Houston Police Homicide Sgt. Michael Cass noted that the shooting does not appear to have been in self-defense, pointing out that it occurred some distance from the house.
Meanwhile, another neighbor claimed she had previously warned the children that the game could be dangerous.
Community Reacts to Senseless Violence
Residents are grappling with the devastating consequences of what was meant to be innocent fun.
Authorities continue to investigate, urging community members to stay vigilant and keep children safe from preventable harm.
