An eleven-year-old boy from Perry County, Pennsylvania, has been charged with criminal homicide after allegedly shooting his father, Douglas Dietz, on Tuesday (January 13). The incident occurred after the child, Clayton Dietz, reportedly became upset when his Nintendo Switch was taken away.
According to court records, Clayton found the key to his father's safe while searching for the gaming console. Instead, he discovered a revolver, which he used to shoot his father in the head while he was asleep. The shooting took place at their home on South Market Street, shortly after 3 a.m.
Clayton's mother, Jillian Dietz, was in bed with Douglas at the time of the incident. She awoke to a loud noise and discovered her husband had been shot. Clayton reportedly admitted to the shooting, telling his mother, "I killed my dad. I hate myself." Authorities noted that Clayton had a large contusion above his left eye and a small laceration on his lip.
The Perry County District Attorney confirmed that Clayton has been charged with criminal homicide and is being held without bail. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have stated there is no threat to the public.
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