The tragic death of 8-year-old Joshua Dunbar, who suffocated after inhaling helium from a birthday balloon, has left his family devastated. On April 27, 2024, Joshua was found unresponsive in his room with a helium-filled number eight balloon over his head.

Despite attempts to revive him, he passed away. The coroner confirmed his death was caused by asphyxia due to the helium displacing the oxygen he needed to breathe.

Joshua’s mother, Carly, is now urging other parents to avoid helium balloons, sharing her heartbreak on social media.

She stresses that air-filled balloons are just as safe and appealing, hoping to prevent another family from experiencing the same devastating loss. Carly’s message is clear: “Please trust me when I say do not buy your children helium balloons.”