An 8-year-old boy, Joshua Dunbar, tragically died just hours after his birthday party when a large helium number balloon accidentally caused him to suffocate in his bedroom. Despite desperate efforts from his family and paramedics, he could not be saved.
A coroner later confirmed his death was caused by asphyxia after the helium balloon prevented oxygen from reaching his body. His devastated mother, Carly, called it “one of the most tragic accidents” and urged parents to avoid buying helium-filled balloons for children.
She has since shared her story publicly, hoping to prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak, encouraging parents to use air-filled balloons instead.