13-Year-Old US-Based Nigerian Boy D!es After ‘Attempting Viral Social Media Challenge’

A California family is mourning the devastating loss of 13-year-old Nnamdi Glenn Ohaeri Jr., whom they suspect died while undertaking a risky social media challenge similar to previous ones that have claimed the lives of other young people.

The teen was discovered lifeless in his bedroom in Murrieta on the morning of February 3, only a day after watching the Grammy Awards with his family.

His mother immediately administered CPR, while his father, Nnamdi Ohaeri Sr., sought assistance from a neighbor and summoned emergency personnel. Despite their attempts, the boy was eventually pronounced dead.

While initial clues indicated a possible suicide, his parents were skeptical and launched their own inquiry. They quickly learned that their son had been swayed by a dangerous social media challenge that requires players to become unconscious. The fad, akin to the infamous “Blackout Challenge,” has been linked to multiple deaths in recent years, causing anxiety among parents and officials.

Ohaeri Jr. did not have any social media accounts, and his phone was equipped with strong parental controls, leading his parents to believe he learned about the challenge via classmates or friends.

The bereaved family hopes that their son’s story may serve as a warning to other parents. They urge families to be mindful of the content and trends that their children may be exposed to, whether online or through peer influence.

Ohaeri Sr. reflected on the tragedy, admitting that while he had taught his sons about the hazards of narcotics, he had not considered the possibilities of social media challenges.

“We don’t talk about not following social media trends or playing social media games,” he said. “And maybe we need to.”

As they deal with sadness and unanswered questions, the family hopes that their traumatic experience may inspire other parents to have open conversations with their children about the hidden risks of social media and peer pressure.

Authorities have yet to declare an official cause of death, and it is unknown whether the incident is being examined as a suicide or accident. The Murrieta Police Department has not offered additional information on the case.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli