HOUSTON, Texas — A Houston neighborhood is reeling from shock and grief after a playful prank among children ended in tragedy Saturday night. Authorities confirmed that 11-year-old Julian Guzman was fatally shot while participating in a game of “ding dong ditch” in east Houston.
According to the Houston Police Department, the incident occurred just before 11 p.m. when Julian and a group of friends began knocking on doors and running away, a childhood prank that has been played for generations. When the children approached a residence in the area, the homeowner, later identified as Greg Travins, allegedly opened fire.
Julian was struck by gunfire and collapsed outside. Friends rushed to get help as neighbors reported hearing multiple shots. Responding officers and paramedics with the Houston Fire Department arrived within minutes and transported Julian to a nearby hospital. Despite being listed in critical condition overnight, the boy succumbed to his injuries on Sunday morning.
Suspect Identified
Police have confirmed that Greg Travins has been identified as the suspect in the shooting. While investigators have not yet released details on whether Travins has been formally charged, officials say the case is being reviewed closely by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.
Detectives are interviewing witnesses, reviewing neighborhood surveillance footage, and piecing together the sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting. Investigators have not confirmed whether Travins made any statements to police at the scene.
Community in Mourning
News of Julian’s death has left the community shaken. Family members described him as a playful and joyful child who loved being outdoors, riding bikes with friends, and making people laugh. “He was just a kid being a kid,” one family member said. “He didn’t deserve this.”
Neighbors have since placed flowers, candles, and stuffed animals near the site of the shooting in a makeshift memorial. A candlelight vigil is being organized to honor Julian’s life and support his grieving family.
The tragedy has also ignited community debate about gun responsibility and the dangers children face even within their own neighborhoods. Many have expressed outrage that a child’s prank — one intended for harmless fun — could result in deadly violence.
Ongoing Investigation
The Houston Police Department emphasized that the investigation remains active. While officials have confirmed Travins’ identity, they are awaiting further evidence and autopsy results from the Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office before announcing formal charges.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy,” said a police spokesperson. “An 11-year-old boy is gone, and a family is devastated. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation and seeking justice.”
As Houston mourns the loss of Julian Guzman, community leaders and advocates are calling for calm, accountability, and conversations on how to prevent similar tragedies in the future.