Parents and residents in Exeter, California, are raising concerns after reports surfaced of children allegedly kicking doors, damaging property, and frightening familiesin neighborhoods near Scroth Park.
The issue came to light following a Facebook post by resident Fernando Serrano Jr. in the community group “You know you’re from Exeter, California when….,” where he described repeated incidents that left his family shaken.
According to Serrano, a group of approximately four children was seen running through the area between 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., kicking doors and causing damage to homes.
Serrano stated that his own door was struck multiple times, resulting in damage and causing emotional distress to his young son, whom he said was “terrorized” by the incident.
The post emphasized that this behavior was unacceptable and urged parents to speak with their children and take responsibility.
Serrano also noted that a name repeatedly mentioned by neighbors was “Aiden,” described as a child who allegedly rides a dirt bike and has previously damaged park property, including tearing up mulch at Scroth Park.
While no formal accusations were confirmed by authorities in the post, the mention sparked intense discussion among residents.
The comments section quickly filled with alarmed reactions, reflecting a mix of frustration, fear, and safety concerns.
Sandra Taff commented,
Time to start making these kids and parents Responsible for their actions!!!!
Sandra Taff
Others echoed similar sentiments, warning that such behavior could have far more serious consequences.
Several residents pointed out the potential danger of door-kicking in a community where homeowners may be armed.
Kelly McCarter wrote,
That’s crazy they’re gonna kick down the wrong door one day smh
Kelly McCarter
On the other hand, Betty Ward added that someone could easily mistake the noise for a break-in and respond with force.
They could scare someone thinking they were coming in and end up shot.
Betty Ward
Another commenter, New ToYou, stressed that this type of prank is especially dangerous, saying that children “don’t realize how serious this could turn.”
Multiple residents mentioned Ring and doorbell cameras, noting that many homes now have video surveillance.
Pamela Davis stated that someone already had footage, and others encouraged residents to turn any video evidence over to the police.
Someone has it on Ring camera!
Pamela Davis
Colleen O’Keefe Annear directly urged contacting the Exeter Police Department, a sentiment throughout the thread.
Additional reports suggested the incidents were not isolated. Steve Jordan shared that his house was targeted around 8:00 p.m., and when he ran outside, he saw what appeared to be a girl between 10 and 12 years old, running with another younger child.
They Did it our house about 8 when I ran out saw a girl about 10 to 12 maybe running with another younger kid !
Steve Jordan
Terry Delk added that police were active two streets away the same night for a similar reason, reinforcing the belief that multiple homes were affected.
Police were on my block 2 streets over last night for the same reason. It didn’t happen to me but apparently at least 1 of the neighbors. A lot of people have doorbell cameras now. Kids don’t realize how much easier it is to get caught than it used to be. I hope the police department will do something about this.
Terry Delk
Missy Anne, a parent herself, expressed disappointment at the thought of children behaving this way, stating she would want to know immediately if her own children were involved.
Others questioned where the parents were and why the behavior had been allowed to continue unchecked.
Some commenters specualted about outside influences. Marie McKenny suggested the actions might be linked to a TikTok trend, noting that similar incidents in other states had nearly resulted in children being shot.
It’s a stupid TikTok trend and some kids in another state almost got shot for doing that by the home owners
Marie McKenny
However, no official police statement was included in the discussion, but residents continued encouraging one another to share information, review camera footage, and communicate with authorities.
