Full Breakdown
Homeowner Arrested After Shooting Juvenile During Ding-Dong Ditch Prank
1/7/2026, 1:27:49 AM
Incident Overview
On January 3, 2026, in Statesville, North Carolina, a homeowner, Craig Steven Mason, 59, was arrested after allegedly shooting a juvenile who was participating in a "ding-dong ditch" prank. The incident occurred around 11:20 p.m. when deputies from the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office heard gunfire while conducting a traffic stop nearby. They responded to a 911 call reporting a gunshot wound on Castle Pines Drive, where they found an unoccupied vehicle with bullet holes and broken glass, and five juveniles in a nearby field, one of whom had been shot in the leg.
Details of the Shooting
According to the investigation, the group of juveniles was driving through the neighborhood engaging in the prank, which involves ringing doorbells and quickly fleeing. Mason, who claimed he was awakened by loud noises, retrieved his handgun and fired multiple rounds at a vehicle he observed without headlights. The vehicle was struck four times, resulting in one round hitting a juvenile passenger in the leg. Mason approached deputies at the scene and identified himself as the shooter.
Charges Against the Homeowner
Mason faces several serious charges, including felony assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury, four counts of felony assault with a deadly weapon, and felony discharging a weapon into an occupied vehicle causing serious bodily injury. He was arrested on January 5, 2026, and is being held without bond pending a court appearance.
Victim's Condition and Ongoing Investigation
The juvenile victim was transported to Wake Forest Baptist Hospital for treatment and remains hospitalized. The Iredell County Sheriff’s Office has indicated that the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming. Legal experts have noted that participants in "ding-dong ditch" pranks can also face charges, which may include criminal trespass or disorderly conduct.
Criticism and Community Response
The incident has sparked discussions about the appropriateness of using firearms in response to pranks, particularly those involving minors. Critics argue that the use of deadly force in such situations is excessive and raises concerns about community safety. The sheriff's office has not provided further comments due to the active investigation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Mason told detectives he observed a vehicle driving through the neighborhood with no headlights on, and he fired multiple rounds toward the vehicle as it passed.” — Iredell County Sheriff’s Office
- “Detectives determined the juvenile victims had not approached Mason’s residence, only nearby homes.” — Iredell County Sheriff’s Office
This incident highlights the potential dangers associated with seemingly harmless pranks and the serious consequences that can arise from misunderstandings in residential neighborhoods.
