Teen Fatally Shot in Tragic TikTok Prank Gone Wrong: What You Need to Know

A tragic event has resulted in the death of a high school student and injuries to two others after a seemingly harmless prank went wrong. The Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office in Virginia announced on Facebook that they have apprehended Tyler Chase Butler, charging him with second-degree murder, malicious wounding, and dual counts of using a firearm in the commission of a felony.

This arrest occurred three days after law enforcement was called to the scene of an alleged home invasion, during which the homeowner discharged a firearm. Upon arrival, deputies discovered two people with gunshot wounds and a third, a minor whose identity has not been disclosed, who was not harmed.

The deceased, identified as 18-year-old Michael Bosworth, later died from his injuries at a nearby hospital. The second victim, a minor, received treatment for minor injuries and was subsequently released from medical care.

The surviving injured teen later explained to authorities that they were not attempting to break into Butler’s residence. Instead, they were filming a series of ding-dong ditch pranks for TikTok, as reported by a local NBC station. This prank typically involves ringing a doorbell and running away before the door can be answered.

The other unharmed teen corroborated this version of events and even showed police a video on their phone capturing a similar prank from earlier in the evening, according to the same report.

Local residents told a Fox News affiliate that they heard up to eight gunshots during the incident.

Michael Bosworth Mourned by Loved Ones After Fatal Prank

Bosworth’s stepfather shared with media that the young man was a senior at Massaponax High School, where he was active in sports, playing lacrosse, football, and participating in wrestling.

It was also reported that Bosworth’s death coincided with what should have been a celebratory day, as it occurred on the same date as his school’s prom and just before his impending graduation.

“Michael was never afraid to express his opinions passionately,” said Khamoni Keys, a former teammate, speaking to an ABC affiliate. “It’s heartbreaking that his life ended this way, but I am confident that his family will not face this alone. We will be there to support them.”