©M10News 2025 | UK Crime Desk
CASTLEFORD – The family of a 12-year-old boy who died following a suspected online challenge has issued a stark warning about the dangers of social media.
Emergency services were called to a home on Manor Grove in Castleford, West Yorkshire, on Friday evening, following reports of concern for a child’s welfare. The boy, named Sebastian, was taken to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead, West Yorkshire Police confirmed.
An investigation is underway to determine the full circumstances of the incident. Authorities have stated the tragedy is not being treated as suspicious, but enquiries continue on behalf of the West Yorkshire Coroner.
In a statement on a GoFundMe appeal set up by relatives, the family described Sebastian’s death as a “tragedy beyond words” and said it was the result of a “dangerous internet challenge.”
“That one moment online changed everything,” the family wrote, urging parents to have open conversations with their children about their online activities.
“Talk to your children about what they do online,” the appeal continued. “Ask what they watch, who they talk to, and what inspires them. Be present. Don’t assume ‘my child would never do that.’ The online world can be as dangerous as the real one – sometimes even more so.”
The family described Sebastian as a boy with a “gentle spirit,” full of “dreams, passion, and incredible talent,” noting that he had taught himself to play the guitar and keyboard.
“Let Sebastian’s passing not be in vain,” the statement added. “Let it be a quiet call for awareness – a reminder to stay close, to talk more, to protect the ones we love. So that other children may live. So that no other parent has to experience this unimaginable pain.”
West Yorkshire Police reiterated in their statement that officers responded alongside ambulance crews at approximately 6:06 pm on Friday.
“Officers attended the location and the boy was taken to the hospital where it was later confirmed that he had died,” the force said.
“Enquiries are ongoing on behalf of the West Yorkshire Coroner to establish exactly what happened. The incident is not being treated as suspicious.”
© 2025 M10News | Credit: Sky News
