Blackout challenge: 12-year-old dies after attempting social media trend; what is the choking challenge?
A 12-year-old boy from Castleford, England, has died while performing a dangerous social media trend known as the "blackout challenge." The incident has reignited global concern over harmful online content targeting children as reported by People.
West Yorkshire Police confirmed that a boy died in Castleford, on Friday, media outlet Yorkshire Live reported
Authorities responded to an emergency call at a residence in Manor Grove, Castleford, following reports of a child in distress. He was taken to hospital, where he was declared dead.
An investigation has been launched under the supervision of the West Yorkshire Coroner, although police have confirmed that the incident is not being treated as suspicious.
What is Blackout Challenge?
According to Healthline The 'blackout challenge,' also known as the 'choking challenge,' is a dangerous online trend spreading on platforms like TikTok. It encourages participants to restrict their own breathing—usually by holding their breath or using objects—until they pass out. The act can lead to serious brain injury or even death.
A GoFundMe campaign launched by a family friend Agnieszka Czerniejewska claims Sebastian lost his life after attempting the "blackout challenge," Czerniejewska also urged parents to closely monitor their children's online activities, writing- 'The online world can be as dangerous as the real one — sometimes even more so.'
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025
Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List
Undo
The fundraiser, which has raised over $5,700, also described Sebastian as a gifted and joyful child who taught himself guitar and keyboard, loved to draw, and was deeply loved by his family.
This incident comes just months after British families filed a lawsuit in the US against TikTok, alleging the deaths of their children — aged 12 to 14 — were caused by the same challenge. According to The Guardian, the lawsuit accuses TikTok of using its algorithm to push dangerous content to vulnerable users to increase engagement and profit.
TikTok, in its defence, has stated that content related to the blackout challenge has been blocked since 2020 and that the platform removes such material proactively. The platform says it directs users searching for harmful challenges to safety resources.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
36 minutes ago
- Time of India
Shefali Jariwala demise: When Parag Tyagi revealed how much he missed his wife during Bigg Boss 13; shared 'When she was away, the house would feel empty'
Kaanta Laga fame Shefali Jariwala's sudden demise has left her family and friends devastated. They are still reeling from the shock and struggling to come to terms with the heartbreaking loss. Shefali's husband, Parag Tyagi, now shattered by her tragic demise, had once opened up about how difficult it was to be away from his wife during her time in the Bigg Boss house. In a throwback interview with Times of India TV, Parag had shared how deeply he missed her presence and how emotionally challenging it was to stay apart On the occasion of Valentine's Day, Parag spoke about badly missing Shefali when she was inside the Bigg Boss 13 house, "Sometimes we become very content with our life. I always felt I love Shefali, but never knew how much I love her or the amount of love I have in my heart for her. When she went inside the Bigg Boss house I realised it. When she was away from me, I missed her at each and every moment. The house was empty without her. I missed her the most when I had a few good things to share and she was not with me. I used to be awake the entire night thinking how to tell her. I used to share with my parents, but I have always shared everything with her and she was not there," he said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Abiti in una casa indipendente? Ecco perché installare una pompa di calore Aira Scopri di più Undo Parag and Shefali shared a deep and passionate bond, and the late actress often spoke fondly about the way he spoiled her with love and affection. In that same interview, Parag expressed his pride in being recognized as Shefali Jariwala's husband, saying it always brought him a sense of honor and joy. He said, "I feel supporting each other is also very important. Our society is such that a wife always gets happy for her husband's success, but the husband doesn't appreciate his wife's success. I think that should change. I feel very happy when people address me as Shefali Jariwala's husband. I get excited when she does a good project or when she bagged Bigg Boss 13. I have also done a lot of work, but nothing makes me happier than being addressed as Sheafli's husband. It makes me proud, I am getting goosebumps right now." Shefali tragically passed away on June 27 at her Mumbai home. Parag immediately rushed her to the hospital, but sadly, the doctors declared her dead on arrival. Exclusive - Bigg Boss 13's Shefali Jariwala and hubby Parag Tyagi celebrate Valentine's Day
Time of India
36 minutes ago
- Time of India
The Running Man Trailer: What role does Glen Powell play? See upcoming film's release date, plot and cast
A new version of The Running Man is coming to theaters. The film, directed by Edgar Wright , will star Glen Powell in the lead role. The movie is based on the novel by Stephen King and the 1987 film that featured Arnold Schwarzenegger. Glen Powell Role Glen Powell plays Ben Richards, a man living in a future where people watch a violent game show. Contestants, known as runners, try to survive while being hunted by killers. These events are broadcast daily. The longer a contestant survives, the more money they earn. Powell's character enters the game to help his sick daughter. Also Read: Fast and Furious 11: Will Brian O'Conner return? See release date, cast, Vin Diesel's three conditions by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Gujarat Mosquito Crisis Solved by Strange New Device (See How) Mosquito Eliminator Read More Undo The Running Man Plot The story is set in a world where people enjoy watching others try to escape death. Each day of survival brings higher cash rewards. Ben Richards agrees to join the show after being approached by the show's producer, Dan Killian. Killian is played by Josh Brolin. Richards joins as a last option, hoping to secure treatment for his daughter. At first, Richards is just another contestant. But he quickly becomes a fan favorite. His quick thinking and refusal to give up attract attention. As more people begin to support him, the system behind the show starts to see him as a problem. The audience loves him, but the producers do not. Live Events Creative Team Edgar Wright directs the film after working on Last Night in Soho. His style often includes fast-paced scenes and strong visual elements. Wright also co-wrote the script with Michael Bacall. Bacall has worked on films like 21 Jump Street and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. Also Read: Netflix July 2025 Releases: Here's complete list of TV shows and movies coming on platform this month The Running Man Cast The movie includes several other actors in important roles. Colman Domingo plays Bobby Thompson, the host of the show. Katy O'Brian appears as another contestant. Josh Brolin, in addition to playing the producer, is central to the story's conflict. Lee Pace plays Evan McCone, one of the hunters trying to stop Ben. Michael Cera plays Bradley, a rebel who supports Ben during the game. The Running Man Trailer Here is the trailer. Release Date and Production The Running Man is set to be released in theaters on November 7. The film is being distributed by Paramount Pictures. The combination of a known story, a popular director, and a strong cast is expected to draw interest. FAQs What is The Running Man about? It is about a man who joins a deadly game show to win money for his sick daughter while being hunted on live television. Who is directing the new version of The Running Man? Edgar Wright is directing the film and co-wrote the script with screenwriter Michael Bacall.
Time of India
37 minutes ago
- Time of India
Marco 2 release update: Makers reveal major details about controversial Malayalam movie's sequel
The future of the Marco franchise has stirred intense speculation following lead actor Unni Mukundan's public announcement that he would no longer be involved in a sequel. In a response to fan queries on social media, the actor cited widespread criticism and what he described as overwhelming negativity around the project as reasons for stepping away. He hinted that he was moving on to pursue newer and more positive ventures, promising to bring something 'bigger and better.' His statements led many to believe the sequel was officially shelved. However, that assumption has been countered by the production house, which made it clear that the story of Marco is far from over. Production House Confirms Plans for Future The producers, Cube Entertainments, issued a statement reaffirming their commitment to the franchise. In response to a fan's suggestion that they sell the rights if they couldn't proceed, the studio clarified that all rights to Marco are exclusively owned by them and will not be transferred or shared. They emphasized that internal discussions around the sequel are still ongoing and expressed confidence in the character's potential for further exploration. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 61 Genius Inventions That Are Unbelievable Unforgettable Gadgets Shop Now Undo This firm position has revived hopes that Marco 2 will be made, possibly with a new actor stepping into the titular role. Franchise With Strong Box Office Pull Marco, directed by Haneef Adeni, became one of the most controversial and commercially successful Malayalam films in recent years. Known for its extreme violence, including scenes involving women and children, the film faced backlash from critics and audiences alike. The Central Board of Film Certification had denied the producers a UA certificate for television screening earlier this year. In response, the producer had even stated publicly that he would refrain from producing violent films in the future. Despite the controversy, the film crossed Rs 100 crore in box office collections and attracted viewers across India. With a diverse ensemble cast and a gripping storyline, the film broke language and regional barriers, gaining popularity beyond Kerala. Origins in Mikhael Universe The character Marco first appeared in the 2019 Malayalam film Mikhael, where he played the antagonist. Although the character died in that film, the 2024 spin-off reinvented the narrative and centered the story around him. In this version, Marco embarks on a violent mission of revenge following a personal tragedy. Given that the storyline was previously adapted to bring Marco back, producers might explore a similar approach again, this time with a different face. While the departure of Unni Mukundan might reshape the direction of the sequel, the franchise is not being abandoned. The producers have made it clear that the Marco universe still holds promise. Although the path forward may involve a new lead or a fresh take, the journey of the character is expected to continue.
