11-Year-Old Boy Fatally Shot While Playing “Ding-Dong Ditch” Prank in Houston; Suspect Detained
HOUSTON, Texas — A tragic shooting in Houston’s Eastside community has left an 11-year-old boy dead after what police describe as a prank turned fatal late Saturday night.
The victim has been identified as Julian Guzman, who, according to investigators, was with a group of children playing a game commonly known as “ding-dong ditch” outside a residence in the 9700 block of Mimbrough. The game, often played by children and teens, involves ringing a doorbell or knocking on a door before running away undetected.
Authorities say that during the prank, a man inside the home came outside and opened fire at the group. Julian was struck multiple times in the back as he attempted to run. The children quickly fled the scene, and neighbors called for help after hearing the gunshots.
Emergency responders rushed Julian to a nearby hospital, but despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries a short time later.
Police detained a middle-aged man at the scene. Witnesses reported seeing officers escort the individual in handcuffs back toward the residence as investigators began their search. Inside the home, officers recovered several firearms, though authorities have not yet confirmed which weapon was used in the shooting.
As of Sunday, Houston Police had not released the suspect’s name or confirmed whether formal charges have been filed. The investigation remains active as detectives work to piece together the sequence of events that led to the deadly encounter.
The news of Julian’s death has devastated family, friends, and the broader community, sparking outrage over what many are calling a senseless act of violence. Neighbors expressed both shock and sadness, saying that children often play games in the area and that no one could have imagined such an innocent act would end in tragedy.
“This was a child, just a boy playing,” one resident said. “Now a family has lost their son forever.”
Police are urging patience as the legal process unfolds but emphasized that the shooting will be thoroughly investigated. They are also calling for calm as the community grieves the loss of a young life cut short.
Julian Guzman’s death now stands as yet another painful reminder of the consequences of escalating gun violence in neighborhoods where children should feel safe to play.
Authorities have asked anyone with additional information or surveillance footage from the area to contact the Houston Police Department’s Homicide Division or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.