A 14-year-old Massachusetts boy tragically lost his life on Friday, mere hours after participating in a viral social media stunt known as the “One Chip Challenge.” The boy’s family suspects that his sudden demise was linked to the challenge, as per various reports. Harris Wolobah, a tenth-grader at Doherty Memorial High School in Worcester, ate an extremely spicy Paqui chip at school, which led to an immediate stomach ache, his mother Lois informed NBC 10 Boston.
After feeling unwell, Wolobah was taken home by his family. He seemed to recover, but was later discovered unconscious just as he was preparing to leave for basketball tryouts, his mother reportedly stated. The teenager was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The exact cause of death is yet to be determined, with autopsy results still pending.
Lois Wolobah told NBC 10 Boston that she suspects her son’s death was a result of complications from the spicy snack. The manufacturer of the chip, Paqui, cautions on its website that consumption of the chip could lead to negative health effects. The challenge involves testing how long a person can endure the heat of the chip without consuming any food or drink for relief.
The Paqui brand explicitly states on its website that the chip is intended for adult consumption only. The company also advises individuals to seek medical help if they experience difficulty breathing, fainting, or prolonged nausea after eating the chip. The brand further instructs consumers to wash their hands thoroughly after handling the chip to avoid contact with eyes or other sensitive areas. This year’s chip reportedly contains Carolina Reaper Pepper and Naga Viper Pepper.
The Worcester public school community is mourning the loss of Wolobah, who was described as a “rising star.” Worcester Schools Superintendent Rachel Monarrez expressed her deep condolences, stating, “As a mother and educator, I cannot imagine how hard this is on his family, friends, and teachers.” Wolobah was remembered as a promising basketball player and an exceptional student.
Douglas Hill, Wolobah’s basketball coach for the St. Bernard’s church team, described him as a dedicated and hardworking individual. Dr. Lauren Rice, Chief of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at Tufts Medical Center, explained that consuming spicy food can lead to a range of reactions, from mouth or lip burning to serious heart issues.