Prank Sparks High-Speed Pursuit (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Tacoma, Washington – A group of teenagers’ water balloon prank took a terrifying turn last month when a local man pursued them through neighborhood streets, cornered their vehicle, and unleashed a barrage of threats, robbery, and gunfire. The incident, which unfolded on February 28, 2026, left one teen hospitalized with a serious chest wound after the suspect allegedly shot him at close range. Prosecutors now pursue heavy charges against the repeat offender, highlighting the dangers of escalating minor disputes.[1][2]
Prank Sparks High-Speed Pursuit
Four teenage boys drove through Tacoma streets that evening, tossing water balloons at passing cars in what started as youthful mischief. One balloon struck a silver Kia sedan driven by 31-year-old Majeed Lamir Guerry. Water splashed through an open window, soaking the driver.[3]
Guerry reacted swiftly. He accelerated after the teens’ vehicle, chasing them to a dead-end gravel lot in the 3200 block of South Tyler Street near the city dump. There, he blocked their escape and approached their car with a handgun drawn. The confrontation escalated rapidly as he pointed the weapon at the occupants.[4]
Threats, Robbery, and Gunfire Erupt
According to court documents, Guerry yelled profanities and racial slurs at the group, declaring phrases such as “You think that’s funny?” and “I should f—ing kill all of you guys.” He demanded their belongings, insisting, “Give me all your f—ing s—.” The teens handed over $1 at first, which he rejected as insufficient before they surrendered about $100 in cash.[5]
Focus then turned to the front-seat passenger, identified as the balloon thrower. Guerry pistol-whipped the teen in the face multiple times, grabbed his collar, and pressed the gun’s muzzle first to his temple and then to his chest from less than a foot away. Witnesses described the metal as cold against the skin. He pulled the trigger, firing a shot that entered the victim’s chest and exited through his armpit. The teen survived after hospital treatment but sustained serious injuries.[2]
Guerry fled the scene afterward, heading to a nearby casino. All four teens provided consistent statements to police and later identified him in photo lineups.[1]
Suspect’s Extensive Criminal Record
Majeed Guerry carried a heavy criminal history into the encounter. Court records revealed four prior felony convictions, including assaults and violations of protection orders. These offenses prohibited him from possessing any firearm, making his actions that night a direct violation of state law.[3]
Investigators pieced together evidence quickly. Surveillance footage from the casino captured Guerry in clothing matching the teens’ descriptions. License plate readers and cellphone data further linked his sedan to the crime scene. Tacoma police arrested him at his apartment on March 20.[2]
Felony Charges Pile Up in Court
Pierce County prosecutors filed a series of grave charges against Guerry. The list included:
- Attempted first-degree murder
- First-degree assault
- Four counts of first-degree robbery
- First-degree unlawful possession of a firearm
- Multiple counts of felony harassment for threats to kill
During his initial court appearance on March 27, Guerry pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors reserved the right to amend charges based on ongoing investigation and requested $300,000 bail, though the judge initially set it at $150,000 before increasing it later. As deputies led him away, he called out to supporters, “Come get me.”[3][2]
The case remains active, with the firearm still unrecovered. Victims expressed fear that the shooting appeared deliberate, not accidental.[5]
Key Takeaways
- A minor prank led to a chase, robbery, and near-fatal shooting, underscoring risks of road rage.
- Guerry’s prior felonies barred him from guns, yet he wielded one during the assault.
- All teens survived and aided investigators, leading to swift identification and arrest.
This episode serves as a stark reminder of how quickly tempers can ignite on public roads, turning neighborhoods into danger zones. Authorities emphasize de-escalation in such situations. What do you think about this case? Share your thoughts in the comments.
