One Chip Challenge: A spicy tortilla killed teen in US

SHAH ALAM - Harris Wolobah, a 14-year-old teenager from Massachusetts, tragically died on last Friday after participating in a viral social media trend that his family believes led to his untimely death.

According to Wolobah's mother, Lois, her son's death was attributed to complications arising from the "One Chip Challenge," although autopsy results are still pending.

This challenge involves consuming one of the spiciest tortilla chips globally, promoted by the U.S. chip company Paqui, and then enduring as long as possible without eating or drinking anything else.

Harris received the chip from a classmate, and shortly afterward, the 14-year-old experienced a severe stomach ache, prompting the school nurse to contact his mother.

After the school day concluded, Wolobah returned home and was preparing to leave for basketball tryouts.

However, his brother discovered him unconscious, and Lois said he was rushed to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

In an effort to ease the funeral expenses for Wolobah's family during the challenging period, his cousin initiated a GoFundMe campaign.

The family is nearing their goal of achieving USD30,000, with 490 donations totaling USD24,654 received thus far.

Lois has also expressed that her son should have been taken to the hospital instead of being sent home following his visit to the nurse's office.

She is determined to raise awareness about the risks associated with the "One Chip Challenge" to prevent further tragedies.

This challenge, which has been in existence for several years, has reportedly resulted in individuals being hospitalised in previous cases.