Social media can sometimes hide deadly risks behind seemingly harmless trends. For 11-year-old Tommie-Lee Billington from Lancaster, England, a moment of curiosity turned fatal during a sleepover with friends.
On Saturday night, the children discovered a popular but hazardous TikTok challenge that involves inhaling harmful gases or solvents—substances like dry shampoo, spray deodorant, and glue—that create a dangerous high. Tragically, when Tommie tried the challenge, it went horribly wrong.
The moment he inhaled the toxic fumes, Tommie suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away instantly.
“The hospital did everything they could to save him, but nothing worked. He was gone,” his grandmother, Tina Burns, shared with heartbreak.
Tina added, “Tommie had a heart of gold, just like his dad. Our family is utterly devastated by this unimaginable loss.”
This tragedy is a stark reminder of how viral online challenges can put young lives at risk. Parents and guardians, please stay vigilant—sometimes a moment’s curiosity can have devastating consequences.
Heartbreakingly, Tommie’s mother, Sherri, spoke out with a plea to parents everywhere, sharing how this deadly trend claimed her son’s life and begging others to keep their children away from this social media app.
“This cost my son his life—just from trying something that other kids are doing,” she wrote in a deeply emotional Facebook post. “Please, talk to your children about the consequences of these challenges. I can’t understand why anyone would even try this. It’s so dangerous!”
With raw grief, Sherri poured out her heart: “I have never felt pain like this before. My whirlwind. I love you so much, mate. My baby boy, you will live forever in my heart.”
She vowed, “I will do everything in my power to make sure your name and your beautiful face become the reason other children are saved—and other families don’t have to endure this unbearable pain.”
Her words moved countless readers to tears, a somber reminder of the urgent need for awareness and protection in today’s digital world.
Tragically, Tommie’s story is not an isolated case. Just months ago, 13-year-old Esra Haynes also lost her life after taking part in the same dangerous challenge.
Rest in peace, Tommie.
Please SHARE this story with your family and friends on Facebook to help spread Tommie’s mother’s urgent message—and together, let’s protect more children from falling victim to deadly online trends.