A late-night prank in Houston ended in heartbreak after an 11-year-old boy was shot and killed while playing the game known as “ding dong ditch.”
Police say the child and a group of friends were running door-to-door ringing doorbells in an East Houston neighborhood around 11 p.m. Saturday when the night turned violent.
As the kids ran away from a home near Mimbrough and Fidelity streets, a man reportedly chased them with a gun and opened fire, striking the boy in the back.
The child, who has not yet been publicly identified, was rushed to the hospital by Houston Fire Department paramedics in critical condition. Despite doctors’ efforts, he died from multiple gunshot wounds on Sunday afternoon.
According to Houston Police, a person of interest was detained and interviewed by homicide detectives but later released. During a search of the home, investigators seized multiple rifles and handguns.
Authorities are working with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office to determine possible charges, with officials indicating a murder charge is “likely.”
Detective Sergeant Michael Cass confirmed the shooting did not appear to be self-defense since it happened away from the residence.
Neighbors described the tragedy as senseless and devastating.
“What harm could they have done? Playing with a doorbell? For someone to shoot him in the back, knowing he was a child… it makes no sense,” one resident told local reporters.
Another urged young pranksters to reconsider such stunts, noting the rise of “ding dong ditch” challenges on TikTok that have led to dangerous situations across the country.
Police are reviewing surveillance footage from the area as the investigation continues. Community leaders say the tragedy highlights the growing concern over reckless gun use and the dangers of viral social media trends.
