Isabel Martin and Scarlett Lisjak
12 minutes ago
TRAVELERS REST, S.C. (WSPA) — Travelers Rest Police are asking for help identifying at least four teenagers who participated in an illegal TikTok trend.
Police said a family living at a home in the Northcliffe area was startled by a loud noise on Thursday night, and when officers arrived at the scene around 10pm they found the door had been kicked in.
“There was a family member inside the home, but it was unclear if anyone had actually gone inside the home. Our officers responded to the scene and conducted a search of the home,” said Travelers Rest Police Investigator Adam Bradshaw.
Police say the suspect appears to be a teenager who was taking part in a new TikTok challenge.
“At least four of the minors appear to be teenage boys,” Bradshaw said. “We believe this may be related to a new TikTok trend that’s happening across the country where young people are kicking down doors in a challenge that’s like a beefed-up version of Ding Dong Ditch.”
Bradshaw said the motive for the crime ultimately came down to “likes.”
“The likes and social media buzz that comes from these activities appears to motivate young people to take part,” Bradshaw said.
Police said teens should think twice before taking part in this potentially dangerous challenge.
“The challenge may be viewed as harmless joke,” Bradshaw said, “but from the other side of the door, the homeowner, who may have a family or small children, may perceive this as hostility. This is a self-defense state, we have a right to self-defense, and a harmless prank like this could have deadly consequences.”
Police officials said this “trend” could lead to serious charges, possibly even felony offences.
“If there is intent to commit a crime within a dwelling, then you could be charged with anything from public order offences to malicious damage to theft,” Mr Bradshaw said.
The young one was spotted in Kilburn Lane but has not been found.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Bradshaw at (864) 610-6408 or bradshaw@trpolice.com.
