Michael Bosworth, Jr. dies in fatal Fredericksburg shooting

Michael Bosworth, Jr. dies in fatal Fredericksburg shooting

Fatal Fredericksburg shooting death of Michael Bosworth, Jr. – Obituary

Michael Bosworth, Jr., an 18-year-old high school senior, was shot and killed in the early morning hours of May 3 in Fredericksburg, Virginia, during what authorities say was a TikTok prank gone wrong.

Deputies from the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office were called around 3 a.m. after receiving reports of a suspected break-in. A homeowner, believing there was an attempted burglary, opened fire on three teens outside the home.

Bosworth and another teen were hit by gunfire. Both were transported to a hospital, but Bosworth succumbed to his injuries while the other was treated and released. A third teen involved in the incident was not hurt.

Investigators learned that the teens were filming a TikTok video of the “ding-dong ditch” prank, which involves ringing a doorbell and fleeing. The prank, though decades old, has seen renewed popularity on social media.

Bosworth was a student at Massaponax High School. The school’s principal, William Lancaster, confirmed his passing in a message to families. The school’s prom went ahead that evening, with grief counselors available for students.

Authorities say the investigation remains active, and no criminal charges have been filed at this time.