9-year-old burned 70% of his body taking part in social media dare, officials say

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE/Gray News) — New Orleans fire and police leaders are warning parents about a dangerous social media trend.

Officials said a New Orleans-area 9-year-old boy recently burned 70% of his body participating in a trend called the “fire challenge,” which dares kids to set themselves on fire.

“It’s very dangerous. It is not fun and it is not funny,” New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said.

Fire chief says boy is in pain, lucky to be alive

New Orleans Fire Department Chief Roman Nelson said the 9-year-old is in unbearable pain and lucky to be alive.

Nelson and Kirkpatrick recorded a video for social media warning children not to take part in the trend.

“Kids, don’t fall for this gimmick and don’t feel peer pressure to take part in it. Your life is not worth it,” Kirkpatrick said.

Officials are urging parents to talk to kids about peer pressure online.