In Florida, teens taking part in TikTok’s “Door Kick Challenge” have been arrested after a prank mimicking a home invasion with an airsoft gun went viral. Authorities warn that these dangerous stunts could lead to serious legal trouble, or even have fatal consequences.

LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE

FLORIDA CITY, FL (2-minute read) — A viral TikTok trend known as the “Door Kick Challenge” has landed several Florida teens in serious trouble, and police across the Country are sounding the alarm.

The challenge, which started as an attention-seeking prank on social media, involves individuals running up to a home and violently kicking in the front door while filming the act. Some have added even more intensity, wearing masks or pretending to carry firearms to make the video more shocking. In one alarming video released by authorities in a Florida county, a masked individual is seen sprinting to a front porch, kicking open a door, and firing off multiple rounds from what appeared to be an airsoft gun and then running off.

While the firearm used was not real, the footage looked eerily similar to the beginning of an armed home invasion.

Why This Trend Is So Dangerous

Police are treating these incidents as criminal acts, not innocent pranks. A forceful entry into someone’s home, regardless of the motive, can be considered a felony. Even worse, if a homeowner believes they are facing a real threat, they may legally defend themselves with a real firearm under Florida’s Stand Your Ground law or castle doctrine. That could lead to something no one wants.

Authorities also emphasize that any object resembling a firearm, including airsoft guns, can be mistaken for the real thing, especially in high-stress moments. Responding officers or frightened homeowners might react with deadly force.

Law enforcement officials are now urging parents to speak with their children about the consequences of social media stunts. What may seem like a viral trend can quickly spiral into criminal charges, or worse.

Safety Tip: Teach teens the difference between pranks and crimes. Entering or damaging someone’s property can lead to dangerous, even fatal, consequences.