Another online challenge that has gone too far. 14-year-old Harris Wolobah died on Friday and his family along with officials believe his death was caused by complications from eating an extremely spicy chip that’s the subject of a viral challenge.
According to NBC Boston, the Massachusetts teen died on the same day he allegedly participated in the online trend dubbed the “One Chip Challenge.” This all unfolded on September 1. The boy’s mother was alerted and asked to come to the school as Harris complained of a stomach ache. While there she was told he had eaten the dangerously spicy chip after it was given to him by a classmate. After he was taken home, the young teen reportedly felt better. However, later that day he reportedly passed out.
Police Lt. Sean Murtha told Worcester Telegram that the boy was unresponsive and not breathing. He was rushed to the hospital where he sadly was pronounced dead. As of right now, no official cause of death has been revealed. A medical examiner will carry out an autopsy to determine exactly how he died. In the meantime, his family has since started a fundraiser where they shared
a heartbreaking tribute to the beloved teen. It read, “The pain our family is experiencing is unimaginable. Harris was a light that lit up the room with his presence and subtle charm. He was an intelligent, quirky, and incredibly talented young man who loved video games and playing basketball!”
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More On The One Chip Challenge
The Paqui One Chip Challenge is a social media challenge that involves the consumption of a spicy tortilla chip. The Paqui 2023 Carolina Reaper + Naga Viper Pepper Chip contains two of the hottest peppers in the world. Doctors say ingesting its ingredients can cause dangerous side effects. In some viral videos, we’ve seen some people hyperventilate and others pass out. But there has never been a death-related incident up until now.
Worcester Schools Superintendent Rachel Monarrez has since released the following statement:
“It is with a heavy heart I share that we lost a rising star, Harris Wolobah, who was a sophomore scholar at Doherty Memorial High School. As a mother and educator, I cannot imagine how hard this is on his family, friends, and teachers. My heart goes out to all who knew and loved him.
“Worcester Public Schools is offering counseling and social-emotional support for those who have been impacted by this tragedy. If you are a WPS student or staff member in need of grief support, please let a caring adult know at your school. We are here to help. “It is during the most trying times that the community of Worcester comes together and this is one of those times. May we stay focused on allowing the grief and healing process during this difficult time.”