Teen Dies After Participating in Viral ‘One Chip Challenge’: Family Blames Social Media Trend
A tragic incident recently occurred in Massachusetts that has raised concerns about the dangers of viral challenges and their impact on young people. A 14-year-old boy named Harris Wolobah passed away after participating in the ‘One Chip Challenge’, a viral trend that has gained popularity on social media platforms in recent years. The boy’s family firmly believes that this dangerous social media trend is what ultimately led to the untimely death of their son.
Harris, a sophomore at Doherty Memorial High School in Worcester, reportedly consumed an extremely spicy Paqui chip as part of the challenge. Soon after eating the chip, he started experiencing a stomach ache, prompting his mother to pick him up from school and bring him home. Initially, Harris began to feel better, but unfortunately, he suddenly passed out just before leaving for basketball tryouts. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was tragically pronounced dead. The exact cause of his death is still pending as an autopsy is underway.
The ‘One Chip Challenge’ originated in 2016 and has since regained popularity among young people. This challenge was initially created as a marketing campaign by the chip company Paqui. Participants purchase the chip, which is flavored with the Carolina Reaper pepper, known as the world’s hottest pepper, and film themselves attempting to consume it without drinking or eating anything for relief. However, the consumption of capsaicin, the compound responsible for the spiciness, can lead to various health issues, including heart attack and esophageal damage.
According to Poison Control, the organization that provides information and assistance regarding poison-related emergencies, consuming capsaicin leads to mouth and throat pain, and in severe cases, can cause life-threatening conditions. Their website warns individuals about the potential health risks associated with participating in the ‘One Chip Challenge’, advising anyone experiencing symptoms after taking part in the challenge to seek help from Poison Control immediately.
Paqui, the chip company behind the challenge, states on their website that the chip should only be consumed by adults and emphasizes the importance of washing hands thoroughly after handling it and avoiding contact with sensitive areas such as the eyes.
Superintendent Rachel Monárrez shared a statement tonight regarding the passing of Harris Wolobah, a 14-year-old sophomore from Doherty High School. Harris passed away at home on Friday, September 1.
Read the statement on our website: https://t.co/e9HASfWnpf @drmonarrez pic.twitter.com/Zi0qhWYaz3
— Worcester Schools (@worcesterpublic) September 4, 2023
Following Harris’ tragic death, the Worcester public school community mourned the loss of a young rising star. Worcester Schools Superintendent Rachel Monarrez expressed her condolences, stating that she cannot fathom the devastating impact this has had on Harris’ family, friends, and teachers. Harris’ basketball coach, Douglas Hill, also expressed his grief, emphasizing that this was an unfortunate situation beyond the young boy’s control.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with viral challenges on social media platforms. While these trends may seem harmless and fun, they can have serious consequences. Parents, educators, and society as a whole should remain vigilant in educating young people about the potential risks involved in participating in such challenges. It is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of our youth in the digital age.
