Boy, 5, dies after inhaling helium from a balloon at home

A five-year-old boy has died after inhaling helium from a balloon at his home. Karlton Noah Donaghey was found unconscious with the balloon covering his face. His family is now warning others about the hidden dangers of helium.

The incident happened shortly after Karlton had been swimming in the family pool. His 29-year-old sister, Kaitlin Donaghey, discovered him unresponsive and immediately began CPR while calling emergency services. He was rushed to hospital but remained in critical condition for six days before dying from severe brain damage caused by oxygen deprivation.

Karlton's mother had cut the balloon's string to prevent a choking risk. However, she was unaware that helium itself could be deadly. The gas can displace oxygen in the lungs within seconds, leading to unconsciousness, brain injury, or asphyxiation. Kaitlin is now speaking out to raise awareness about the risks of helium balloons. She urges parents to avoid buying them and to choose air-filled alternatives instead.

The family's warning comes as many remain unaware of helium's suffocation hazard. Karlton's death highlights how quickly the gas can become fatal, even in small amounts. His sister continues to share their story in the hope of preventing similar tragedies.