ORANGE PARK, Fla. – A young couple in Clay County is on edge after a terrifying scenario at their home.
Marek Deamud and Jamie McNulty have lived in their home in the Pebble Creek neighborhood for about a year and a half. They said they were drawn to the area for its family-friendly atmosphere, especially as they prepare to welcome their first child in May.
“We’re going to call him ‘J-Dub.’ Hopefully, if he likes it,” Deamud said.
But their sense of security was shattered on Friday night as they sat watching TV. Without warning, someone kicked in their front door and ran away. Their home security camera captured the moment along with the panic that followed.
“We were about to die,” McNulty said when asked about her initial reaction. “I thought someone was breaking in to hurt us. Our baby. Luckily, they didn’t.”
The couple later learned from investigators and family members that the incident could be linked to a social media trend. Similar events have been captured on security cameras across the country, with some calling it a new version of the classic “ding-dong ditch” prank—but with far more serious consequences.
“These are basically home invasions,” News4Jax Crime and Safety Analyst Tom Hackney explained. “There’s no robbery aspect, but when you kick in somebody’s door, law enforcement is going to look at it as a home invasion.”
Beyond the legal repercussions, Hackney warned that startled homeowners may feel the need to defend themselves, creating a potentially deadly situation for both parties.
“That is a deadly game that you’re playing,” he said.
As for the young couple, the fear of what could have happened still lingers making it hard to sleep.
“I was feeling good, but now I’m scared,” McNulty said.
The couple is urging anyone with additional video footage or information about the incident to contact law enforcement.