Houston, TX – New details have emerged involving Gonzalo Leon, a 42-year-old army veteran accused of fatally shooting 11-year-old Julian Guzman during a ‘ding dong ditch’ prank near his East Houston home on August 30, 2025. The tragic incident has sparked discussions on community safety, self-defense laws, and the consequences of such violent actions.
Two days after the shooting, Leon was charged with murder, and during his bond hearing on September 3, 2025, a judge set his bond at a substantial $1 million, reflecting the severity of the allegations surrounding the case.
The Fatal Incident: What Transpired on August 30?
According to investigators, the shooting occurred after Julian Guzman and his cousins were playing ‘ding dong ditch’ along the 9700 block of Mimbrough in East Houston.
Witnesses reported that after ringing the doorbells multiple times, the children ran away. At one point, Leon, described as dressed in black and armed with a pistol, emerged from his property gate.
- Leon allegedly fired a warning shot into the ground.
- He then aimed his pistol at the running child and fired a second shot.
- Julian was struck in the back, fell to the ground, and called for help, unable to move.
- His cousin attempted to assist by dragging him away from the scene, fearing paralysis.
- A neighbor also rushed to help while Leon walked back inside his home.
“We believe that this is an intentional and knowing act; this wasn’t reckless behavior. This was a direct shot to the back of an 11-year-old who was running away, hence the murder charge.” – District Attorney Sean Teare said as per reports.
Despite initially being detained and questioned by officers on the day of the incident, Leon was released. However, following further investigation, the Harris County District Attorney’s Office filed and accepted murder charges.
Suspect’s Military Background and Previous Charges
Gonzalo Leon has an extensive military background, having served as an 11B Infantryman in the U.S. Regular Army from August 2013 to December 2016. He then continued service in the Texas National Guard until May 2021. His deployment to Afghanistan took place between November 2014 and April 2015, and he left the Army with the rank of specialist.
The U.S. Army spokesperson commented on the matter, stating,
“Unfortunately, due to Privacy Act constraints, we cannot release any information regarding the nature of a Soldier’s discharge or anything related to injuries sustained during an individual’s service.”
During the bond hearing, prosecution highlighted Leon’s previous charge related to a terroristic threat in Harris County from Guadalupe County. However, his attorney, Gianpaolo Macerola, clarified that Leon:
- Has never been to prison.
- Has no prior criminal record.
- The Guadalupe County case was dismissed due to mistaken identity.
- Attended San Jacinto College Maritime.
Community Impact and Legal Proceedings Ahead
The shooting has reignited community debates about the boundaries of self-defense and the use of force under Texas’ castle doctrine laws. Law enforcement recovered over 20 firearms from Leon’s residence including AR-style rifles, shotguns, and pistols, raising further concern.
District Attorney Sean Teare has indicated that additional charges against Leon may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
What Do You Think About This Case?
This devastating shooting highlights the dangers of both escalating minor pranks and the use of deadly force in neighborhood disputes. What are your thoughts on the incident involving Gonzalo Leon and the tragic death of Julian Guzman? Share your perspective on community safety and self-defense laws in the comments below.
