Spotsylvania Man Charged with Murder After Teen’s TikTok Prank Turns Deadly
A Spotsylvania County man, 27-year-old Tyler Chase Butler, has been charged with second-degree murder following the shooting death of 18-year-old Michael Bosworth Jr. The incident occurred around 3 a.m. on Saturday, when Bosworth and two friends were filming a "ding dong ditch" prank for TikTok.
According to reports from the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office, authorities responded to a report of a shooting during an alleged burglary. Upon arrival, they found Bosworth with severe gunshot wounds; he later succumbed to his injuries. A second teen sustained minor injuries, while a third was unharmed.
The group had reportedly been visiting the neighborhood for their social media video, where they knocked on doors and quickly ran away—a trend that has gained popularity online. Witness statements indicated that the teenagers were unfamiliar with the area. They were shot while fleeing from a residence.
Butler was arrested on Tuesday and now faces charges of second-degree murder, malicious wounding, and firearm use during the crime. He is currently being held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.
Bosworth, a senior at Massaponax High School, was celebrated by classmates in a somber memorial where they shared memories and released balloons in his honor. The school has offered counseling services to students grappling with grief ahead of graduation set for May 13.
This tragic incident mirrors past occurrences linked to similar pranks, highlighting the dangerous implications that can arise from such activities. A preliminary hearing for Butler is scheduled for June 18, as the investigation continues.
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