Brisbane boy, 13, killed in choking 'game'
The death of a 13-year-old Brisbane boy in a choking "game" has sparked warnings for parents to educate their children about the dangers of the online craze.
The principal of the boy's north Brisbane Catholic school, which has not been named at his parents' request, broke news of the boy's death in an email on Monday that urged parents to monitor their children's online behaviour.
Federation of Parents and Friends Association of Catholic Schools in Queensland executive director Carmel Nash said parents needed to be aware of the game, which involves children being dared to allow themselves to be choked unconscious.
The boy's death is a shocking reminder for parents ot monitor their kids' online behaviour. Source: News Corp
"They are kids, they are not aware of the dangers and the consequences, and it really is the parents' job to talk to kids about it and for schools to make sure they are making parents aware," she told the Courier Mail.
The boy was a keen cricket and AFL player and his clubs have paid tribute to him in a Facebook post.
The schoolyard choking game derived from the Ultimate Fighting Championship Photo: 7 News
The game encourages people to cut off their airway that induces a “high” before passing out. Photo: 7 News
"(He) was a talented left-arm bowler, sharp fielder and hard-hitting batsman. A team player who embraced the true spirit of friendship and cricket," one club wrote.
Several young teens have died while playing the deadly game in recent years, while a Gold Coast boy almost died as recently as last June.
Jamie's father, Rodney Cox (pictured), teared up over the news of his son's near-death experience. Photo: 7 News
News of the recent death shocked Rod Cox whose young son Jamie was nearly killed after hitting his head while playing the choke-out game at Palm Beach-Currumbin High School.
This almost cost Jamie his life and now it has happened again with tragic consequences,” Mr Cox told the newspaper.
“It’s bitterly disappointing that this sort of stuff is still going on.”
The father said he hoped his boy's brush with death would have served as a warning to other children who dared to play the deadly game.
For more information about the damaging effects this dangerous schoolyard act has on students visit click here.
