ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – What started as a social media trend is now leaving some Central Florida families shaken and on edge. On social media, the “Door Kick Challenge” — where teens run up to a home, kick the front door, and run away — has already led to charges against one Central Florida teen.
“It’s just really frustrating and unnerving,” said Brittany Conner, who lives in west Orange County. “I mean, it has been going on for at least a month.”
Footprints left behind on Conner’s front door, she says, serve as evidence of repeated incidents. She adds that the loud bangs often come without warning.
“My nerves are frayed because I’m trying to make my children dinner, and then they slam the door so hard — which that in itself makes you jump,” Conner said.
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Around the neighborhood, other residents say they have similar experiences. Some say teens have also participated in the “ding dong ditch” challenge — ringing doorbells and running away — but neighbors say the door-kicking trend feels far more aggressive and alarming.
One homeowner shared surveillance video showing teens covering their faces and blocking his security camera before allegedly kicking his door. He says the incident terrified both him and his son.
Across Central Florida, at least one teen has been arrested in connection with the challenge. Law enforcement officials and residents alike warn the prank could lead to serious consequences.
“These kids, I’m sure they think it’s funny,” Conner said. “But you just don’t know what’s going to happen on the other side of that door.”
Some fear a startled homeowner could mistake the prank for a break-in attempt, potentially escalating the situation.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office addressed the growing concerns in a statement, saying in part:
“These types of ‘pranks’ are not funny and can be terrifying for residents who could feel they are in danger if someone is trying to kick in their door. First and foremost, we would want young people to know that this could land them in real trouble. And we want our residents and visitors to know that if there’s anything concerning happening, or anything suspicious, they should call 911 and have a deputy respond to determine whether a crime has occurred and document that crime.”
Conner urges parents to talk with their children about the risks and reminds teens that what may seem like a harmless joke could result in serious consequences.