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A 14-year-old named Harris Wolobah tragically lost his life shortly after participating in the Paqui “One Chip Challenge,” which has gone viral and involves people eating one über-spicy chip.
According to CBS News Boston, the tragedy went down late last week after Wolobah — a sophomore at Doherty Memorial High School in Worcester, Massachusetts — ate one of the hot chips after receiving it from a friend.
For context, the “One Chip Challenge” has been around for years, and it involves people eating a single tortilla chip flavored with some of the world’s hottest peppers. The purpose is to record yourself eating the chip and waiting as long as possible before quelling the burn.
After partaking in the challenge, Wolobah felt unwell and reportedly fainted. He went to the nurse’s office and was eventually sent home with his family. Further complications arose later that same day, and he was ultimately pronounced dead.
An autopsy is underway, and the exact cause of death is still pending.
Additionally, it’s important to note that Paqui’s website acknowledges that the product is “intended for adult consumption.” The caveat for the challenge also reads, “Do not eat if you are sensitive to spicy foods, allergic to peppers, night shades or capsaicin, or are pregnant or have any medical conditions.”
In a statement to CBS News Boston, Harris’ mother — Lois Wolobah — expressed the pain she feels following the loss.
“I pray to God that no parents will go through what I’m going through. I don’t want to see anybody hurting the way I’m hurting.”
While chatting with NBC Boston, Lois also criticized the school for having his family take him home. Instead, she believes he should’ve been sent straight to the hospital after doing the challenge.
On GoFundMe, the late teen is described as an “incredibly talented young man” who “lit up the room.”
“The pain our family is experiencing is unimaginable. Harris was a light that lit up the room with his presence and subtle charm. He was an intelligent, quirky and incredibly talented young man who loved video games and playing basketball.”
