13-year-old Nigerian-American boy dies after suspected social media challenge

A family in Southern California is mourning the tragic loss of their 13-year-old son, Nnamdi Glenn Ohaeri Jr., who they believe died after attempting a hazardous social media challenge.

Nnamdi, affectionately known as “Deuce” to friends and family, was found unresponsive in his bedroom on the morning of February 3. The family had spent the previous evening watching the Grammy Awards together, as reported by KTLA.

In a frantic effort to save their son, Deuce’s mother performed CPR while his father, Nnamdi Ohaeri Sr., sought assistance from a neighbor and contacted emergency services. Despite their swift actions, the teenager could not be revived.

Initially, Deuce’s death appeared to be a suicide, but his parents were unconvinced. They conducted their own investigation and discovered he had learned about a dangerous trend circulating online.

Deuce was the eldest of four brothers and had a deep love for music and football. Raised in a military family in Murrieta, he cherished family time and had an infectious sense of humor.

“He had a good sense of humor and a great wit about him,” said his father, Nnamdi Ohaeri Sr., in an interview with KTLA.

After Deuce’s passing, his parents uncovered evidence that he may have tried a challenge where children intentionally pass out.

“I heard something where this young person tried to make themselves pass out and I guess they came back from it,” Ohaeri Sr. explained.

His parents believe this is the most plausible explanation, especially since Deuce didn’t have social media accounts, and his phone was closely monitored with parental controls. They suspect he may have learned about the challenge from classmates.

Challenges like the “Blackout Challenge,” which encourages participants to restrict their breathing until they lose consciousness, have sparked legal action against TikTok from grieving parents who lost children to the trend.

As Deuce’s family grapples with unanswered questions, they continue to stress the importance of teaching children to be wary of dangerous influences.

The family has since held a funeral and a celebration of life for Deuce, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the love and support shown by their community during this difficult time.