A 12-year-old sixth grader died after choking in a hallway at Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community School here on Wednesday, June 10, with authorities investigating a possible connection to the viral TikTok “One Bite” challenge.
Jacob Medina was on his way to class around 11:39 a.m. when he began choking while reportedly eating a doughnut, which may have been purchased as part of a school fundraiser. An adult was present at the time of the incident.
School staff responded immediately, attempting the Heimlich maneuver, back slaps and CPR. Despite their efforts, they were unable to clear the obstruction. Medina was transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Yonkers police are actively investigating whether the tragedy is linked to the popular TikTok trend, in which participants attempt to consume large amounts of food in a single bite. Officials have cautioned that it is too early to confirm the challenge’s role, but they are reviewing witness accounts and any potential social media involvement.
“Anything about a TikTok challenge, anything about witness statements, we are going to investigate,” Yonkers Police Commissioner Christopher Sapienza said.
Yonkers Public Schools Superintendent Anibal Soler Jr. noted the swift actions taken by staff. Grief counselors were made available to students and faculty following the incident.
The Yonkers community gathered Thursday evening to mourn Medina, leaving flowers and candles at the school. Described as a bright student, his death has been felt deeply across the school and local area.
No official cause of death has been released, pending autopsy results. The investigation remains ongoing as of June 13.
The “One Bite” challenge, which often involves oversized, unchewed bites of food captured on video, has drawn concern over potential choking hazards, particularly among younger participants. Choking remains one of the leading causes of preventable injury-related deaths in children.
This developing story underscores the risks associated with viral social media challenges that promote unsafe eating behaviors.
