A 14-year-old teenager from Massachusetts died after eating a piece of extremely spicy chip. His family is placing the blame completely on the snack and a TikTok viral challenge he took part in.
Harris Wolobah, a Massachusetts resident, passed away on Friday, September 1, from what his family believes were complications related to the trending "one chip challenge."
Reportedly, an autopsy report has not yet been released. Officials have not provided any other details regarding the student's demise, including the cause of death.
The Viral 'One Chip Challenge'
In the famous TikTok challenge known as "one chip," participants are given the task of consuming what is widely believed to be the world's spiciest brand of tortilla chips without taking any kind of a break from the heat, such as drinking water or milk, for as long as possible.
Paqui, a chip created in the United States, is individually wrapped and boasts on its website that it is seasoned with the Carolina Reaper and Scorpion peppers, which are two of the hottest in the world.
Lois Walobah, Harris' mother, told NBC10 Boston that she was summoned to her son's school on Friday by the nurse. Harris had reported that a classmate had given him a chip, causing him to suffer from an intense stomachache. She added that after returning home, Harris' brother shouted that he had passed out in the afternoon.
Harris' death was confirmed at the hospital where he was brought.
Lois wants everyone to know about the chips in an effort to avoid similar tragedies from happening to other families, as she believes her son should have been sent to the hospital rather than being sent home after visiting the nurse's office.
Thousands of people have tried the "one chip challenge" over the last several years, with different degrees of success (including tears and stomachache).
The manufacturer warns that the chip is not intended for youngsters and that it should only be consumed by adults. It says that anyone with a low tolerance for spicy foods or allergens should avoid it.
A Promising Young Kid
The school where Harris excelled in basketball held a memorial for the teenager.
According to Sky News, Worcester Public Schools Superintendent Rachel Monarrez remarked, "It is with a heavy heart I share that we lost a rising star, Harris Wolobah. 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."
Coach Douglas Hill was shocked to hear that one of his finest players had passed away. "In a million years, you never would've imagined any kid nevertheless, Harris, so it was definitely difficult."
Over $22,000 has been donated thanks to a memorial fund put up by Harris' loved ones to cover the cost of his burial.
