HOUSTON, Texas — Authorities have charged 42-year-old Gonzalo Leon Jr. with murder following the fatal shooting of 11-year-old Julian Guzman.
The incident occurred around 10:55 p.m. on Saturday, August 30, in the 9700 block of Racine Street. According to witnesses, Guzman was playing a “ding-dong ditch” prank, ringing doorbells and running away, when he was shot. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead on August 31.
Initially, police detained and questioned one individual who was later released. Following further investigation, detectives identified Leon as the suspect. Charges were formally filed on September 1, and Harris County Police SWAT and CAT units arrested Leon on September 2. He is currently held at Harris County Jail.
Authorities have not released a motive and are continuing their investigation.
The tragic death of Julian Guzman has prompted an outpouring of grief from the Houston community, with neighbors and local leaders calling for calm and safety in neighborhoods.