Eleven-Year-Old Clayton Dietz Accused in Deadly Shooting of Father Douglas Dietz in Duncannon, Pennsylvania

 Duncannon, Pennsylvania — A small community in Perry County is in a state of shock and mourning after a devastating event resulted in the death of 42-year-old Douglas Dietz and a criminal homicide accusation against his 11-year-old son, Clayton W. Dietz. Officials confirmed that the tragic shooting happened early in the morning on January 13, 2026, within the family's residence on South Market Street, a date that coincidentally was Clayton's 11th birthday.

As reported by law enforcement and court documents, emergency personnel were alerted to the home around 3:00 a.m. following a report of gunfire. Upon reaching the location, officers found Douglas Dietz suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Despite receiving immediate medical care, he was declared dead on the scene.

Subsequent investigations revealed that the accused shooter was Douglas Dietz’s son, Clayton. Legal documents suggest that the boy allegedly informed investigators of his frustration stemming from having his Nintendo gaming console taken from him. In retaliation, Clayton supposedly searched through a dresser, found the keys to a gun safe, took out a revolver, and shot his father while he was asleep in bed.

The boy’s mother, Jillian Dietz, reportedly awoke to the sound of the gunshot. Upon entering the bedroom, she discovered her husband incapacitated and bleeding. Authorities reported that Clayton then came into the room and stated, “Daddy’s dead,” followed by the admission, “I killed my dad.” Jillian quickly called emergency services.

This case has attracted significant attention due to the young age of the accused and the seriousness of the charges. According to Pennsylvania law, minors aged 10 and up can be prosecuted in adult court for homicide. Consequently, Clayton Dietz is being handled through the adult criminal justice system instead of juvenile court.

Clayton has been officially charged with criminal homicide and has been denied bail. He is currently in custody at the Perry County Prison awaiting further legal actions. A preliminary hearing is planned for January 22, 2026, where prosecutors are anticipated to present initial evidence and discuss the forthcoming steps in the case.

Community members have voiced shock and sadness in response to the tragedy, indicating that the family was not previously known to law enforcement. Residents have started to extend support to relatives impacted by the event while officials stress that the investigation continues.

Authorities have not disclosed further information regarding the family's history or any possible domestic issues. Investigators are still analyzing evidence from the residence and are conducting interviews to gain a clearer understanding of the events that led up to the fatal shooting.

As Duncannon mourns the death of Douglas Dietz, this case brings forth challenging questions about juvenile justice, access to firearms within homes, and the intricate factors that can lead to unimaginable situations within a family.

Additional updates are anticipated following the preliminary hearing that will take place later this month.