An 11-year-old boy in central Pennsylvania has been charged with criminal homicide after authorities say he fatally shot his father following a dispute over a video game device.
The shooting occurred on Tuesday, Jan. 13, in Duncannon Borough, Perry County. Police allege the child shot his father, 42-year-old Douglas Dietz, inside the family’s home after Dietz confiscated the boy’s Nintendo Switch.
Court records show the child has been charged with criminal homicide. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Jan. 22. He was denied bail.
Events Leading to the Shooting
According to investigators, the boy became angry after being told to go to bed and after his gaming device was taken away earlier that evening. Authorities noted that the day of the incident was the boy’s birthday and that he had spent the day with his parents.
During interviews with police, the child allegedly said he believed the Nintendo Switch had been placed inside his father’s gun safe. Investigators say the boy found a key, opened the safe, and instead discovered a revolver.
Police allege the child removed the firearm, loaded it with ammunition, and walked into the bedroom where his father was sleeping. Authorities say the boy cocked the hammer and fired a single shot at close range, striking his father in the head.
Discovery and Statements to Police
Douglas Dietz’s wife, Jillian Dietz, told investigators she awoke to the sound of a gunshot and noticed a strong odor before realizing her husband was bleeding heavily. She attempted to wake him before recognizing the severity of the injuries.
According to police, the boy entered the bedroom moments later and stated that his father was dead. Investigators at the scene also reported hearing the child say he had killed his father.
In subsequent interviews, the boy reportedly told officers, “I shot somebody,” and acknowledged that he had intended to shoot his father. However, investigators said the child later stated he had not fully thought through the consequences of his actions and did not consider that the shooting could be fatal.
The boy was adopted by the Dietz family in 2018, according to authorities.
Additional Details from the Investigation
Police documents indicate the child showed visible injuries when questioned, including bruising above one eye and a small cut on his lower lip. The origin of those injuries has not been publicly explained.
During a later interview, Jillian Dietz told investigators that the boy expressed remorse, telling her he hated himself for what had happened.
Legal Proceedings
Because of the child’s age, authorities have not released his name. Prosecutors have not announced whether additional evaluations or juvenile court proceedings may be pursued as the case moves forward.
The investigation remains ongoing.