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11-year-old fatally injured during a 'ding dong ditch' prank will be laid to rest on Saturday; a veteran faces charges in the child's demise

11-year-old Julian Guzman, instead of enjoying a soccer game with friends, will now be placed in his final resting place - a week after a harmless children's prank tragically resulted in a gunshot wound to his back, proving fatal.

Eleven-year-old child lost in a 'ding dong ditch' prank incident, with a veteran now facing charges...
Eleven-year-old child lost in a 'ding dong ditch' prank incident, with a veteran now facing charges for the resulting fatalities. Burial service planned for Saturday.

11-year-old fatally injured during a 'ding dong ditch' prank will be laid to rest on Saturday; a veteran faces charges in the child's demise

In a heartbreaking turn of events, the community of Houston, Texas, is saying their final goodbyes to 11-year-old Julian Guzman, who was tragically taken away following a violent incident. The services for Julian will take place over the weekend, as per the following schedule.

On Friday, a visitation and rosary service will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Crespo in Houston. The following day, a chapel service and committal service will take place, marking the end of a life that brought immeasurable joy and light to everyone who knew him.

The accused in this case is Gonzalo Leon Jr., an Army veteran, who was arrested on Monday by a SWAT special police unit. The arrest took place at a La Quinta hotel in La Porte, approximately 20 miles away from Leon's home. The details of the incident suggest that Julian and his 10-year-old cousin were participating in a prank called "ding dong ditching" when they approached Leon's house. Tragically, Leon emerged from his house, stepped out, and shot Julian in the back. Julian succumbed to his injuries the next day while being treated for the gunshot wound.

Leon's arraignment is scheduled for October 21, according to court records. The defense team had requested a bond of $100,000, but a judge ruled in favor of the prosecution, setting the bond at $1 million.

Julian, affectionately known as a "little ladies' man," was known for his kind heart, humour, and the special way he charmed everyone around him. His obituary states that he will always be remembered for his bright smile, playful spirit, and the joy he brought into every room he entered. He leaves behind two parents, two brothers, and "many friends and relatives."

The community is encouraged to attend the services to pay their respects and celebrate the life of this remarkable young boy. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Julian's family during this difficult time.

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