Particle.news
Download on the App Store
8 ARTICLES
·
5d ago

Houston Man Charged With Murder After 11-Year-Old Is Shot Fleeing Doorbell Prank

Prosecutors plan to seek a $1 million bond, citing evidence of an unarmed child shot in the back during flight.

Photo shows 11-year-old Julian Guzman who was fatally shot while playing a doorbell ditch prank, according to Houston Police.
This image provided by the Houston Police Department shows Gonzalo Leon Jr.
Image

Overview

  • Gonzalo Leon Jr., 42, was charged with murder in the killing of Julián Guzman, 11, and was booked into the Harris County jail after an initial court appearance.
  • Prosecutors said they will ask a judge Wednesday to set bond at $1 million and are considering a capital murder charge because of the victim’s age.
  • Authorities say the boy was at least about 20 feet from the door, unarmed, and struck in the back as he ran, with police saying the case does not appear to involve self‑defense.
  • Investigators are canvassing the neighborhood and building the case with witness accounts, physical evidence, and the autopsy, and no definitive surveillance footage has been identified.
  • News reports note officers found numerous firearms in the home, and the case has renewed warnings about social media‑fueled doorbell pranks linked to deadly retaliation.