by Frisco, Texas – A late-night prank turned dangerous when a 58-year-old man allegedly opened fire on a group of teenagers playing a “ding dong ditch” game in a suburban neighborhood. Police say the incident, which occurred on July 28 on Scottsdale Way, has now led to three felony charges.
How the Incident Began
According to the Frisco Police Department, officers were dispatched around 10:50 p.m. after receiving a call from a resident who admitted to firing shots outside his home. The suspect, identified as Damon Wolfe, told officers that he believed someone had tried to kick down his door.
Investigators later determined that Wolfe stepped outside with a firearm and fired multiple rounds at a passing vehicle he suspected was involved.
Teens Admit to Prank
Not long after the shots were fired, another call was made to police reporting that a vehicle had been hit. The car’s driver and two passengers initially claimed they were attacked while driving elsewhere. However, after further questioning, they admitted they had been pulling a “ding dong ditch” prank in a nearby neighborhood.
Police confirmed the pranksters’ car appeared to have three bullet holes, consistent with Wolfe’s shots.
Charges and Legal Consequences
On August 7, Wolfe was arrested and charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon—one for each teenager in the car. Each count is a second-degree felony, carrying a potential penalty of two to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
“The bullets fired in this offense could have easily struck neighbors’ houses and had deadly consequences,” said Frisco Police Chief David Shilson, warning both homeowners and pranksters of the serious risks involved.
Police Warn of Dangerous Online Trends
Chief Shilson emphasized that while pranks like ding dong ditching might seem harmless, the situation could have ended in tragedy.
“What started out as a prank, ding dong ditching a house, turned into something that could have potentially had deadly consequences,” Shilson told CBS News Texas.
He added that the teenagers were “very fortunate” not to have been killed or seriously injured.
Shilson also urged parents to educate their children about the dangers of online trends and pranks that involve trespassing or startling homeowners.
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Why This Matters
The case highlights how a minor prank escalated into a felony case with potentially life-changing consequences for both the teens and the homeowner. While the prank itself may not be illegal in every situation, entering someone’s property without consent can be considered trespassing, and any response involving firearms can lead to serious legal charges.
This incident serves as a warning: in high-tension situations, what might begin as a joke can spiral into violence, criminal charges, or even loss of life.
Final Takeaway
The Frisco case is a stark reminder that both pranksters and homeowners can face legal consequences. For teenagers, seemingly harmless challenges can result in encounters with armed residents. For homeowners, firing a weapon without imminent danger can lead to felony charges and prison time.
As Chief Shilson noted, “This incident was completely senseless and avoidable.”
For residents across Texas and beyond, the message is clear: think twice before engaging in or reacting to pranks that could put lives at risk.
What are your thoughts on this case? Do you think the charges against the homeowner are justified, or should the pranksters also face consequences? Share your views in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
