A 10-year-old girl in Italy was declared brain dead after trying the so-called “Blackout Challenge” on TikTok, according to local reports.
The dangerous game – also known as “fainting challenge” and “fainting game” – challenges participants to suffocate themselves until they pass out for a few seconds.
But the challenge became tragic when the child, who tied a belt around his neck, accidentally suffocated, reported the Italian news agency ANSA.
The girl was rushed to a hospital in Palermo on Thursday, the outlet said. She arrived with cardiac arrest and was soon declared brain dead by doctors.
Her parents gave permission for their daughter’s organs to be donated, ANSA said, indicating that she would soon be removed from life support.
Experts have warned that the trend is dangerous and can cause fainting, brain damage and seizures.
TikTok users are encouraged to flag anyone involved in the challenge by clicking on the symbol that says “Report”.