In what police are calling a dangerous social-media trend, teenagers kick and pound at residential doors late at night or early in the morning.
Nanaimo RCMP are warning the public about a “dangerous” social-media trend called the TikTok Door Kick Challenge, in which teenagers kick and pound at residential doors late at night or early in the morning.
Police said the trend has been “repeatedly” affecting neighbourhoods around Nanaimo, especially in the Departure Bay area.
It’s been seen in cities around Canada and the United States, and may date back as far as 2021.
Reserve Const. Gary O’Brien said the incidents are not harmless pranks. “The aggressive nature of these acts has caused significant fear among residents, especially seniors and vulnerable people, who may believe someone is attempting to break into their home.”
Incidents to date have primarily involved youths from 13 to 15, who record the reactions they get from people before running away.
Residents have reported thousands of dollars in property damage to doors and entryways, police said, and many have installed security cameras, additional lighting and alarm systems.
Police said some have become “fearful and hyper-vigilant,” and several have chased suspects on foot or in vehicles.
O’Brien warned against such pursuits, saying they create additional safety risks for everyone involved.
Police are encouraging parents and guardians to speak to their children about not taking part in such activities.
They said many of the youths involved might not understand the fear and distress their actions are causing.
Intentionally damaging property or causing disturbances can lead to criminal charges, police said.
A homeowner was injured in Courtenay after he was allegedly assaulted by a 16-year-old boy he caught in the act of kicking his door in 2023.
The homeowner said he had put up with door kicking for over four years, so he bought a security camera and put up fishing line at the door as a deterrent.
When a door kicker got stuck in the fishing line, the man and his wife tried to apprehend him but were hit with flashlights by the door kicker and another person who was with him.
Anyone who has information about the incidents or sees suspicious activity is asked to contact Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345.
source: Times Colonist photo: NANAIMO RCMP
