A vivacious 11-year-old killed in a ‘ding dong ditch’ prank will be laid to rest Saturday. A veteran is charged in his death

He was a delightful charmer known as a little “ladies’ man.” A gregarious Houston boy who loved cooking as much as he adored sports and video games.

But instead of playing soccer with his friends, 11-year-old Julián Guzman will be laid to rest Saturday – exactly one week after a popular children’s prank ended with a fatal gunshot wound to his back.

“Julian brought immeasurable joy and light into the lives of everyone who knew him,” his obituary states.

“He had a big fascination for dropped trucks. Known affectionately as a little ‘ladies’ man,’ he had a special way of charming everyone around him with his kindness, humor, and a big heart.”

While Julián’s family prepares for his funeral, another family awaits the fate of a father and Army veteran accused of killing the young boy.

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