12-year-old boy dies after participating in viral scarf challenge online in West Yorkshire
Summary
A 12-year-old boy named Sebastian died after reportedly attempting a viral social media challenge known as the "scarf challenge" in Castleford, West Yorkshire. He was found unresponsive after celebrating his brother’s First Holy Communion on May 13. Paramedics tried to save him but were unsuccessful. His death is not being treated as suspicious by police. Sebastian’s family has highlighted concerns about dangerous online trends, noting that other children in the UK have died from similar challenges. A GoFundMe page set up in his memory described him as a talented and kind boy whose life was cut short by the online challenge.
Incident Details
Content or interactions that contribute to self-harm, suicidal ideation, or eating disorders.
Non-suicidal self-injury facilitated or encouraged through online interactions.
Content or contact linked to suicidal ideation, attempts, or completion.
Sources
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