A 14-year-old boy in Brazil endured a week of agonizing symptoms before succumbing to a mysterious illness after injecting himself with a mixture of dead butterfly remains and water.
The incident, which occurred in Vitoria da Conquista, has raised concerns that the teenager may have been influenced by an online challenge.
The boy, identified as Davi Nunes Moreira, fell seriously ill after the injection, experiencing severe pain, persistent vomiting, and mobility issues.
His condition worsened rapidly, prompting his family to seek medical help. Despite efforts to treat him, he did not survive.
Medical professionals suspect that the injection led to a severe allergic reaction, a bacterial infection, or even an embolism.
The presence of foreign particles in the bloodstream could have triggered a fatal blockage, while the potential toxins from the butterfly remains may have caused systemic poisoning.
Doctors also believe that improper injection techniques could have introduced harmful bacteria, leading to septic shock and multiple organ failure.
The case has gained national attention, with speculation mounting over whether the boy had been imitating a viral social media trend.
Online challenges involving risky dares have previously resulted in injuries and fatalities, raising alarm among parents and authorities.
Local law enforcement has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of death.
Authorities are awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination, which will help clarify the medical factors that contributed to the tragedy.
While there is no official confirmation that Moreira was following an online trend, investigators are examining his internet activity and interactions to rule out external influences.
The incident has left the community in shock, with many questioning the potential dangers of social media exposure among young people.
As the inquiry continues, the case serves as a stark warning about the risks of experimenting with unknown substances, especially when influenced by online trends.