A tragic incident has rocked the city of Yonkers in New York state, where 12-year-old Jacob Medina died after drowning while on school grounds. US authorities are investigating whether the incident is related to a dangerous challenge circulating on the social network TikTok.

According to preliminary information, the sixth grader was allegedly attempting the so-called “One Bite Challenge,” a viral trend where participants attempt to swallow an entire food item in just one bite. The 12-year-old was reportedly attempting to consume an entire pancake when he began having serious breathing difficulties.

A school employee immediately found him and administered first aid, while other staff members arrived at the scene moments later to assist until emergency crews arrived. Despite efforts to save him, Jacob was rushed to the hospital, where doctors confirmed his death shortly after arrival. Yonkers police have launched a full investigation to determine the circumstances of the incident. Police Chief Christopher Sapienza said investigators will review all possible evidence, including testimony and any possible connection to the viral challenges on TikTok.

Parents' representatives have also demanded that school security camera footage be analyzed to reconstruct minute-by-minute what happened before the child lost consciousness. So far, authorities have not come up with an official conclusion on the exact cause of death, while the investigation continues.