PHOENIX (AZFamily/Gray News) – A Phoenix family says two teenagers caused around $10,000 in damage by kicking in their front door in an incident that police believe may be connected to a dangerous social media trend.
Ring video footage shows two people who appear to be teenage boys opening a Phoenix family’s front gate about 6 a.m. Saturday and running to the front door while trying to cover their faces. One then kicks the door open before they run off.
A woman in the home, who wanted to remain anonymous, says she heard a loud bang and first thought someone was breaking in or that a car had crashed into the home.
“I carry, personally, just because you never know what’s going to happen. I think it’s always safer that way,” the woman said. “I immediately reached for that because what else are you supposed to do when you think someone is in your home? You’re not going to be walking around just like, ‘Hello, come get me.’”
The family says the door was custom-built and will need to be completely remade at a cost of around $10,000. They hope sharing the video will help identify the teens involved.
The teens were seen driving a red truck with what appears to be a custom license plate.
Police link report to viral ‘door kick challenge’
Phoenix Police confirmed they responded to the home and reviewed the homeowner’s security footage. Police say they took a criminal damage report and will assign it to a detective for follow-up.
Police believe the incident may be linked to a social media trend known as the “Door Kick Challenge,” which encourages people – often teens – to kick front doors with force and film it for online attention.
“While some may view it as a prank, this behavior poses serious risks to residents and offenders alike,” police said. “Door kicking can cause property damage, frighten families, escalate confrontations, and lead to criminal charges including disorderly conduct, criminal damage, or trespassing.”
The trend can also lead homeowners to believe they’re facing an actual break-in, prompting unnecessary 911 calls and public safety risks, police said.
Police are urging parents and guardians to talk with their kids about the consequences of taking part in dangerous online trends and are asking community members to report suspicious activity.
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