Public Safety · New Orleans, LA
New Orleans Officials Warn Parents After Boy Burns 70% of Body in 'Fire Challenge'
New Orleans fire and police leaders warned parents about a dangerous social media trend after a New Orleans-area 9-year-old boy burned 70% of his body participating in the "fire challenge," which dares children to set themselves on fire. Fire Department Chief Roman Nelson said the boy is in severe pain but alive, while Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick recorded a video urging kids not to give in to peer pressure. Officials are asking parents to talk with their children about online challenges and peer pressure.