10-Year-Old Boy Critically Injured in Door-Knocking Shooting
URGENT UPDATE: A 10-year-old boy is in critical condition after being shot during a door-knocking prank gone wrong in southeast Houston late Saturday night. The incident occurred around 10:55 p.m. on Membrough Street, according to police.
Witnesses report that the boy was playing a prank, knocking on neighbors’ doors and running away, when shots were fired. Shay Awosiyan, a spokesman for the Houston Police Department, confirmed that one person was detained at the scene and is currently being questioned, but no charges have yet been filed.
The boy was treated by the Houston Fire Department before being rushed to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical condition. This shocking event highlights the dangers associated with a growing trend known as the “Door Kicking Challenge,” which has gained traction on social media platforms like TikTok.
Authorities warn that pranks like these can lead to severe consequences. In a similar incident in Frisco, Texas, a homeowner was charged with aggravated assault after firing shots at a vehicle that fled following a door-knocking prank. Police reports reveal that the homeowner believed they were facing a potential break-in.
In Chandler, Arizona, law enforcement released footage of juveniles participating in the same challenge, with one house reportedly targeted over 18 times. The Chandler Police Department issued a warning to parents, urging them to discuss the serious ramifications of such pranks with their children.
The Fort Worth Police Department echoed this sentiment, stating that what may seem like harmless fun can provoke dangerous responses from homeowners. “It can be mistaken as an attempted break-in, potentially prompting dangerous or defensive responses from homeowners,” they stated.
As the investigation continues, officials emphasize the importance of understanding the potential risks involved in such activities. Parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s behavior and ensure they are aware of the consequences of participating in dangerous pranks.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
