A Virginia homeowner, Tyler Chase Butler, is facing serious charges after allegedly fatally shooting a high school athlete during a TikTok prank gone wrong.
Michael Bosworth Jr., 18, a senior at Massaponax High School and a three-sport athlete, was killed early Saturday morning while participating in a game of “ding dong ditch” with two friends, according to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say the group rang the doorbell of Butler, 27, around 3 a.m. in Fredericksburg. Butler, who later told police he believed the teens were attempting a break-in, opened fire, killing Bosworth and injuring one of his friends. A third teen escaped unharmed.
Local news outlet Fredericksburg Free Lance–Star reported that the wounded teen insisted they were recording the prank for TikTok. They were looking for a hiding spot when shots were fired. NBC 4 Washington also confirmed the activity as part of a doorbell-ringing prank.
Tragically, the incident occurred just hours before Bosworth was scheduled to attend his high school prom. Tyler Chase Butler has been charged with second-degree murder, malicious wounding, and multiple firearm offenses.
He is currently being held without bond at Rappahannock Regional Jail, officials confirmed.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?
