Houston, TX — A 10-year-old boy was left in critical condition after being shot by a neighbor while allegedly taking part in a door-knocking prank with friends late Saturday night, according to police.
The shooting happened around 10:55 p.m. on Membrough Street in southeast Houston.
“A 10-year-old was apparently knocking on neighbors’ doors and running away when someone apparently fired shots,” said Shay Awosiyan, a spokesman for the Houston Police Department.
Police said one individual was detained at the scene for questioning, but as of Sunday no charges had been filed.
Victim in Critical Condition
The boy, who was with a group of friends during the prank, was treated by the Houston Fire Department before being transported to a local hospital. Authorities confirmed that he was listed in critical condition as of Sunday afternoon.
The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, and Houston police have not yet provided additional details about the suspect or potential charges.
The “Door Kicking Challenge”
The incident has drawn renewed attention to the growing social media trend known as the “Door Kicking Challenge.” The viral challenge is based on the older prank “Ding Dong Ditch,” in which kids knock or bang on doors before running away.
However, the new version has spread rapidly on platforms like TikTok, where teens post videos of themselves kicking or pounding on doors late at night.
As reported by ABC News, law enforcement agencies across the country have been issuing warnings about the dangerous consequences of the prank.
Similar Incidents Nationwide
This isn’t the first time the prank has escalated into violence:
- Frisco, TX (July): A 58-year-old homeowner was arrested and charged with aggravated assault after firing multiple rounds at a car leaving his property following a similar prank. The vehicle had three bullet holes.
- Chandler, AZ (June): Police released video of juveniles committing the prank 18 times at the same home, eventually prompting the homeowner to move.
- Fort Worth, TX (May): Police reported receiving more than 20 complaints of the challenge in a single neighborhood.
Officials stress that the prank is increasingly mistaken for attempted break-ins, leading to armed responses from homeowners.
“It can be mistaken as an attempted break-in, potentially prompting dangerous or defensive responses from homeowners,” the Fort Worth Police Department warned.
Police Urge Parents to Step In
Law enforcement across several states has urged parents to talk to their children about the risks.
“Let’s be clear: These ‘pranks’ can have serious consequences and lead to charges such as criminal damage, disorderly conduct, or harassment,” Chandler police said in a statement.
Authorities recommend parents monitor their children’s activities, particularly at night, to prevent similar incidents.
Key takeaways from police warnings include:
- Know where your children are and who they are with.
- Talk about social media trends and why they can be dangerous.
- Remind kids that pranks involving strangers’ homes may be perceived as break-ins.
- Warn about potential criminal charges linked to property damage or harassment.
A Dangerous Trend
What may seem like harmless fun to young people has already resulted in arrests, injuries, and near-tragedies. The Houston case is the most serious yet, with a child fighting for his life after a prank went fatally wrong.
What are your thoughts on this troubling incident and the rise of the “Door Kicking Challenge”? Share your views in the comments below.
