Particle.news
Download on the App Store
18 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Houston Man Held on $1 Million Bond in Killing of 11-Year-Old During Doorbell Prank

Prosecutors describe a fleeing child shot in the back, signaling a possible capital murder enhancement.

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.
A makeshift memorial for 11-year-old Julian Guzman, who was shot and killed during a doorbell prank, is shown Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Overview

  • Gonzalo Leon Jr., 42, is charged with murder and remains in the Harris County Jail after Judge Emily Detoto set bond at $1 million.
  • A criminal affidavit and witness account say Leon fired a warning shot, then shot Julián Guzman in the back as he ran at least 20 feet from the home.
  • Investigators cite a video recovered from the victim’s phone and the cousin’s statement as key evidence supporting the account of fleeing children.
  • Police searching Leon’s home reported finding about 20 firearms, including AR-style rifles, shotguns and pistols; officials say self-defense statutes do not apply.
  • Leon was arrested by a SWAT team at a La Porte motel; prosecutors argued the location suggested flight risk, while his attorney said the family left home due to media attention, with the next court date set for October.