Inquest into 11-year-old boy who died after taking part in dangerous 'chroming' social media craze

"I will make sure to the best of my ability that your name and your beautiful face will become the reason that other children's lives will be saved," says the boy's heartbroken grandmother.
By Matthew Calderbank
Published 12th Mar 2024, 15:16 BST
Updated 12th Mar 2024, 15:17 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

An inquest into the death of an 11-year-old boy who died after taking part in a dangerous social media craze has opened in Preston.

Tommie-lee Gracie Billington died on Saturday, March 2 after he was found unresponsive at a friend's home in Greenset Close, Lancaster.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

His grandmother Tina Brown, who lives in South Ribble, said that her grandson suffered a suspected cardiac arrest at around 12.45pm and was rushed to hospital. Sadly, paramedics were unable to save him.

Lancashire Police said his death is currently 'unexplained' and an investigation is ongoing, but his grandmother said the boy lost consciousness after sniffing or inhaling toxic fumes.

READ MORE: Clayton-le-Woods boy, 11, died after TikTok craze went tragically wrong, say family

Today at Preston Coroners Court, area coroner Kate Bissett confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances in the youngster's death.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The boy's family did not attend the hearing, which was briefly opened and then adjourned until June 6. A GoFundMe set up by a family friend to help with funeral costs has raised more than £4,000. You can donate here.

Related topics:South RibbleLancashire PoliceInquest

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.