Virginia Homeowner Arrested After Fatal Shooting of Teen During TikTok Prank
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*Spotsylvania County, VA* — A late-night TikTok prank turned tragic when 18-year-old high school senior Michael Bosworth Jr. was fatally shot by a homeowner in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The incident occurred around 3 a.m. on May 3, 2025, as Bosworth and two friends participated in a “ding-dong ditch” prank, knocking on doors and fleeing, while filming for social media. The group approached the residence of 27-year-old Tyler Chase Butler, who, believing a burglary was in progress, opened fire, killing Bosworth and injuring another teen.
Bosworth, a senior at Massaponax High School and a multi-sport athlete, was pronounced dead at Mary Washington Hospital. The second teen sustained minor injuries, and the third was unharmed. Butler has been charged with second-degree murder, malicious wounding, and two counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. He is currently held without bond at Rappahannock Regional Jail.
Investigators found video evidence on the teens’ phones corroborating their account of the prank. The incident has sparked discussions about the dangers of social media challenges and the appropriate use of force in self-defense situations.
Bosworth’s death occurred on the day of his senior prom. His girlfriend attended the event wearing his bow tie in his memory. A vigil was held at Massaponax High School, where classmates released balloons and lanterns in his honor.
Legal experts note that the case hinges on whether Butler’s belief of an imminent threat was reasonable, considering the teens were outside his home and engaged in a prank. Virginia’s “castle doctrine” laws permit the use of deadly force if a homeowner reasonably believes they are in danger, but the applicability in this case remains under scrutiny. ([Fox News][5])
The incident underscores the potential consequences of social media pranks and the importance of understanding self-defense laws.