What should have been a night of laughter and mischief ended in heartbreak for one Houston family. Eleven-year-old Julián Guzman, a boy remembered for his bright smile, playful spirit, and love of cooking, sports, and video games, was fatally shot last weekend while playing a popular children’s prank known as “ding dong ditch.”

According to authorities, Julián and his cousin left a family birthday party to knock on neighbors’ doors and run away—a harmless prank generations of kids have played. But when they reached the home of 42-year-old Army veteran Gonzalo Leon Jr., the fun took a devastating turn. Prosecutors say Leon stepped outside and fired two shots, one of which struck Julián in the back.

The young boy collapsed and cried out for help as his cousin desperately tried to drag him to safety. Julián died the following day at the hospital.

The suspect, Leon, was later arrested at a hotel about 20 miles away and charged with murder. Prosecutors allege he was preparing to flee, while his attorney claims he was protecting his young child and seeking refuge from media attention. His bond has been set at $1 million.

Julián’s family, now preparing for his funeral, described him as a “ladies’ man” with a big heart who brought joy to everyone around him. His obituary reads: “Though Julián left this world too soon at the age of 11, he will always be remembered for his bright smile, his playful spirit, and the joy he brought into every room he entered.”

The tragedy has sparked conversations about gun violence, the role of viral social media trends like TikTok’s “ding dong ditch,” and the devastating consequences when innocent fun collides with deadly force.

As his community gathers to say their final goodbyes, Julián is remembered not for the way his young life ended, but for the light and love he gave in his short time here.