A late-night prank turned tragic when 18-year-old Michael Bosworth Jr., a high school senior from Virginia, was shot and killed while filming a TikTok challenge known as “ding-dong ditch” in the early hours of May 3.
Bosworth and two friends were knocking on doors and running away in a residential neighborhood in Fredericksburg when they approached the home of 27-year-old Tyler Chase Butler. Believing the activity to be an attempted break-in, Butler allegedly opened fire. Bosworth was struck and later died at a local hospital. One of the teens sustained minor injuries, while the other was unharmed.
Police recovered phone footage showing the incident was part of a social media prank. Butler has been charged with second-degree murder, malicious wounding, and multiple firearm-related offenses. He remains in custody without bond.
Bosworth, known for his involvement in football, lacrosse, and wrestling at Massaponax High School, was scheduled to attend prom the night of the shooting. His death has left the school and wider community in mourning.