A six-year-old boy from Illinois tragically lost his life after inhaling helium from a Mylar balloon, according to family members and officials. The incident occurred in the boy’s home in Mt. Carmel on May 29. The Wabash County Coroner’s Office, which responded to the distressing scene, stated that the preliminary findings suggest the cause of death was suffocation due to the helium-filled balloon.
Coroner Shaun Keepes issued a public warning about the potential dangers of these large, child-sized balloons, which are often seen as harmless decorations. He emphasized the serious risks they pose, especially to young children, including the rare but severe possibility of suffocation and helium toxicity.
Further tests and toxicology reports are pending to confirm the official cause of death. Local law enforcement is also conducting an investigation into the tragic incident.
The young boy, Gunner Hyatt, had recently completed Kindergarten at Mount Carmel Elementary School. His obituary described him as a joyful and adventurous child whose laughter could light up any room. He loved being outdoors, whether playing baseball, fishing, or exploring the woods. Gunner also had a passion for monster trucks and enjoyed mud riding with his family.
Gunner, the youngest of three children, celebrated his birthday on May 21. His aunt, Bethany Hyatt, expressed her grief on social media, describing Gunner as a joy to be around and an incredible child. She wrote about the deep void his absence has left in their lives and how he touched many lives during his short time on earth.
Gunner’s funeral is scheduled for Friday afternoon at the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home. This tragic incident echoes a similar case in 2023 when a young girl from Tennessee lost her life due to her birthday balloons just days after her seventh birthday. The girl’s mother has since been warning other parents about the potential hazards of foil helium balloons.