A Texas man has been arrested and is facing three felony charges after firing shots at teenagers who were attempting a “ding-dong-ditch” prank at his home in Frisco, Texas. The incident took place on July 28, 2023, and has sparked concerns over the dangers of viral pranks and reactions that escalate into violence.
The Incident: Shots Fired Over a Prank
The Frisco Police Department responded to the scene around 10:50 p.m. on July 28 after receiving a report of shots fired at a passing vehicle. Damon Wolfe, 58, had reportedly heard a loud bang on his door and believed the teenagers were attempting to break into his home. In response, Wolfe fired several rounds at a passing car that he assumed was involved in the incident.
The Teenagers’ Prank Turns Dangerous
Later that evening, the Frisco Police responded to another call about a vehicle that had been shot at. The three teenagers in the vehicle initially claimed they had been shot at while driving on a different street. However, after further questioning, they admitted they were part of a “ding-dong-ditch” prank, where they rang doorbells and ran away. Wolfe, armed with a firearm, had fired at their car as they fled the scene.
Felony Charges and Arrest
As a result of the incident, Damon Wolfe was arrested on August 7, 2023, and charged with three counts of aggravated assault—one for each person in the vehicle. The charges carry the potential for a prison sentence of 2 to 20 years, along with a $10,000 fine.
A Warning About Viral Challenges and Legal Consequences
Frisco Police Chief David Shilson emphasized the serious consequences of the prank, which could have had deadly outcomes. He stated that the teenagers were very fortunate not to have been seriously injured or killed, and warned parents about the risks of viral online challenges that encourage such pranks. Shilson also noted that homeowners should understand the legal implications of reacting violently to such situations, as the bullets could have easily struck neighboring houses.
Chief Shilson’s Statement: A “Senseless” Incident
“The teens involved in this case are very fortunate they were not shot and killed or seriously injured,” Chief Shilson said. “What started as a harmless prank escalated to something much more dangerous. This incident was completely senseless and avoidable.” The chief’s statement highlights the dangers of escalation and serves as a reminder for both pranksters and homeowners to consider the consequences of their actions.
