Teen’s Tragic Death from Spicy Chip Challenge Sparks Lawsuit

A Massachusetts teenager, Harris Wolobah, died after participating in a social media spicy tortilla chip challenge. The autopsy revealed his death was due to a congenital heart defect exacerbated by the chip’s capsaicin concentration. The event has led to warnings from authorities about the dangers of consuming extremely spicy foods.

A lawsuit was filed Thursday following the death of a Massachusetts teen after he took part in a social media spicy tortilla chip challenge.

Harris Wolobah, a 10th grader from Worcester, tragically passed away on September 1, 2023, after consuming a Paqui chip as part of the manufacturer's 'One Chip Challenge.' The autopsy confirmed that Wolobah died from cardiopulmonary arrest brought on by the ingestion of a high-capsaicin substance, revealing he also had a congenital heart defect.

Paqui, a Texas-based subsidiary of the Hershey Co., expressed condolences but emphasized the chip's clear warnings against consumption by children and individuals with health conditions sensitive to spicy foods.

Reports of adverse reactions to the challenge have surfaced across the U.S., involving multiple teenagers who required medical treatment. The challenge has led to growing concerns among medical professionals who warn that extreme spiciness can trigger serious health issues, including allergic reactions, breathing problems, irregular heartbeats, and heart attacks.

(With inputs from agencies.)