Funeral services are planned for 11-year-old Julian Guzman, who was tragically killed after playing ding dong ditch at a home in east Houston.
HOUSTON — Funeral arrangements are now planned for 11-year-old Julian Guzman, the boy killed while playing ding dong ditch in east Houston over the weekend.
A growing memorial of balloons, flowers, candles, and a cross marks the spot where friends and classmates have gathered to say goodbye. Many are leaning on each other as they grieve.
“He was my friend since the day I got there. And he always knew how to put a smile on everybody’s faces,” said Mariah Hinojosa, a classmate of Julian’s. “He was really nice, sweet.”
Authorities say Guzman was shot late Saturday night after knocking on a door in a ding dong ditch prank. Prosecutors allege the homeowner, 42-year-old Gonzalo Leon Jr., opened fire as Guzman ran away from the house.
“The allegations involve someone intentionally killing an 11-year-old for knocking on their door,” said Assistant District Attorney John Brewer.
Leon appeared before a judge Monday morning and is charged with murder, a first-degree felony. He’s being held at the Harris County Jail on a $1 million bond.
His defense attorney pointed to Leon, Jr.’s military service and family responsibilities, saying he should be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Meanwhile, Julian’s friends say the loss is unimaginable.
“But God needed another angel,” Hinojosa said.
Grief counselors have been made available at Julian’s school as students cope with the tragedy.
Funeral services for Guzman are planned for this weekend. Leon, Jr. is due back in court next month.
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