A Family’s Mission: Turning Tragedy Into Awareness After a Viral Challenge Turns Deadly

In the wake of their devastating loss, Tommie-Lee Billington’s family has channeled their grief into advocacy. What began as a desperate search for answers has become a nationwide plea for awareness — one meant to save other children from the same fate.
Tommie-Lee’s mother, Sherri-Ann, and grandmother, Tina Burns, have spoken openly about the online “chroming” trend, describing how easily young people can be drawn into dangerous behaviors disguised as harmless fun. “Please talk to your kids,” Sherri-Ann urged. “If this story can stop even one more family from going through what we are, then speaking out is worth it.”
Experts say these challenges often circulate through short-form video platforms, gaining traction among impressionable audiences. While many participants view them as harmless dares, the reality is far more sinister. The chemicals inhaled during “chroming” can trigger oxygen deprivation, seizures, and sudden cardiac arrest — even after a single attempt.
Authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident to better understand how the tragedy unfolded and how such risks can be prevented in the future. Local organizations and schools have also begun campaigns focused on educating students about the hidden dangers of viral trends.
Meanwhile, support for Tommie-Lee’s family has poured in from across the community. Friends, teachers, and strangers have contributed to fundraising efforts in his memory, helping create resources to raise awareness about online safety. Candlelight vigils have been held to honor his life — a young boy remembered for his laughter, curiosity, and boundless kindness.
For those who knew him, the loss serves as a painful reminder that even ordinary moments — a sleepover, a game, a shared laugh — can turn tragic when the influence of social media goes unchecked. Tommie-Lee’s story stands as both a warning and a call to action: that conversations about safety, honesty, and awareness must begin long before children log on.
Through their heartbreak, his family continues to repeat one message, simple but urgent — talk, listen, and protect. Because one honest conversation could be the difference between another ordinary night and another life cut far too short.