A 13-year-old US-based Nigerian boy, Nnamdi Glenn Ohaeri Jr., tragically died after allegedly attempting a dangerous social media challenge. His parents believe he was influenced by peers despite having strict parental controls. The incident raises concerns about viral internet trends and their risks to young lives.
A Nigerian family in Southern California is grieving the loss of 13-year-old Nnamdi Glenn Ohaeri Jr., who was found unresponsive in his bedroom on February 3. His parents suspect he died after attempting a dangerous social media challenge that encourages participants to cut off their oxygen supply, similar to the infamous "Blackout Challenge." Although the teenager had no social media accounts and had strict parental controls on his devices, his family believes he may have learned about the challenge from peers. His mother performed CPR while his father called for help, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead.
Initially, authorities considered the possibility of suicide, but the family’s investigation pointed to the influence of viral internet trends. The tragedy highlights growing concerns over social media challenges that have led to multiple child deaths in recent years. Ohaeri Sr. admitted that while he had warned his sons about drugs, he had not discussed the dangers of online trends. Now, the grieving parents urge other families to be more vigilant about what their children are exposed to, whether through the internet or friends.
Authorities have yet to determine the official cause of death, and it remains unclear whether the incident is being treated as an accident or suicide. Meanwhile, the Murrieta Police Department has not provided further updates on the case. The Ohaeri family hopes their son's story will serve as a wake-up call for parents to educate their children on the hidden dangers of viral social media challenges.
