Boy, 12, dies in social media challenge as parents warn of 'dangerous' internet

The family of a 12-year-old boy who died after trying a dangerous social media challenge have warned other parents about the "dangers" of the internet. The child, named only as Sebastian, was rushed to a hospital near his home in Castleford, West Yorkshire, on Friday, June 27, where it was later confirmed he had died. According to a fundraising appeal set up after his death, the 12-year-old lost his life in a "dangerous internet challenge".

The appeal said: "Sebastian was only 12-years-old. A boy full of dreams, passion and incredible talent. He taught himself how to play the guitar and keyboard, and he loved to draw. "Always smiling, kind and full of joy - everyone who met him was touched by his gentle spirit. His parents gave him all the love and care in the world - but that one moment online changed everything."

The fundraising appeal, which has raised over £6,000, also urged other parents to "talk to your children about what they do online".

"What happened is a tragedy beyond words," it continued. "No parent should ever have to bury their child. No one should ever endure such heatbreak.

"The online world can be as dangerous as the real one - sometimes even more so. Let Sebastian's passing not be in vain. Let it be a quiet call for awareness - a reminder to stay close, to talk more, to protect the ones we love.

"So that other children may live. So that no other parent has to experience this unimaginable pain."

West Yorkshire Police said in a statement: "Police were called by ambulance colleagues to an address in Manor Grove, Castleford, at 6.06pm on Friday following reports of concern for the safety of a child.

"Officers attended the location and the boy was taken to hospital where it was later confirmed that he had died.

"Enquiries are ongoing on behalf of the West Yorkshire Coroner to establish exactly what happened. The incident is not being treated as suspicious."