In the wake of the unfortunate death of Tommy-lee Gracie Billington, an 11-year-old child who passed out at a friend’s house on March 2 after inhaling toxic substances, two adults have been questioned by the police.
There was deep suspicion that the “chroming” social media trend—in which users inhale potentially dangerous substances such as paint, solvents, aerosols, cleaning supplies, or gasoline—may have contributed to his death. In the same way that alcohol produces a short-lived euphoric effect, these chemicals can cause a variety of adverse effects, such as lightheadedness, drowsiness, relaxation, increased excitation, and moderate visual distortions.
According to the coroner, there were no red flags, such as assault or murder. The death was the result of peer pressure and ridiculous copy-catting of dangerous situations and activities that people see on social media.
It is as embarrassing as it is tragic when these deaths are the result of social contagion.
According to Tina Burns, the grandma of the child, the youngster inhaled toxic vapors as part of a social media fad. She and her buddy tried out the TikTok trend of chroming.
The family voiced their support for banning social media use by anyone under the age of 16 and removing TikTok as an app.
After three months, police in Lancaster arrested a 25-year-old man on suspicion of contributing to Billington’s demise.
According to the official report, cardiac arrest was the cause of death.
The company said it has removed ads for risky activities, such as chroming and other challenges, from TikTok. In a Facebook post, the boy’s mom, Sherri, warned people about the dangers of TikTok challenges and encouraged parents to talk to their children about the app’s real-life implications.
Arrest warrants were issued for the guy following allegations of drug distribution, money laundering, negligence, and cruelty to children. While the inquiry was underway, he was given bail.
