A Virginia man, TYLER CHASE BUTLER, 27, has been charged with second-degree murder following the fatal shooting of an 18-year-old high school student, MICHAEL BOSWORTH JR., in what authorities initially believed was an attempted home break-in. The Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office reported that the incident occurred early Saturday morning, with additional charges of malicious wounding and two counts of firearm use during a felony filed against Butler.
The surviving teens involved in the incident claimed they were filming a “ding-dong-ditch” prank for TikTok, a popular social media challenge. However, home surveillance footage obtained by FOX5 DC shows the group not only ringing the doorbell but also aggressively banging, kicking, and slamming on a garage door at Butler’s residence.
Legal experts have weighed in on the case, emphasizing that the outcome will hinge on whether Butler’s use of force was justified under the “stand your ground” or “castle doctrine” laws. JESSICA LEDINGHAM, a federal litigator and criminal defense attorney, noted that the charges would be valid if the teens were outside the home, where they are less likely to be perceived as an immediate threat.
JAMIE E. WRIGHT, founder of the Wright Law Firm, stated that while social media challenges can escalate tensions, they rarely justify the use of deadly force. Similarly, MADELINE SUMMERVILLE, a national trial attorney, highlighted that the castle doctrine applies only if the homeowner genuinely believed their life was in imminent danger.
Bosworth, a multi-sport athlete at Massaponax High School, was mourned by classmates during a vigil held in his honor. The other injured teen was treated for minor injuries and released. Butler is currently being held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.
Source: Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office, FOX5 DC, and legal experts.