5 days ago
Boy, 6, dies after inhaling helium from balloon just days after birthday
WARNING: DISTRESSING CONTENT Following Gunner's death last month a coroner has warned the public about the 'unrecognized' dangers of the large, child-sized balloons
A six-year-old boy has tragically died eight just days after his birthday after inhaling helium from a Mylar balloon, family and officials have said.
The horrific incident happened on May 29 when Gunner Hyatt likely suffocated to death when he breathed in the inert gas at his home in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Officers from Wabash County Coroner's Office rushed to the scene but sadly Gunner was unable to be saved.
Following Gunner's death a coroner has warned the public about the 'unrecognized' dangers of the large, child-sized balloons.
On Wednesday June 4 Wabash County Coroner Office shared a statement following Gunner's tragic death, it read: "Shaun Keepes responded to a residence in Mount Carmel on Thursday, May 29, 2025, regarding the tragic accidental death of a juvenile.
"An autopsy was conducted in Springfield, Illinois, on Friday, May 30, 2025. Preliminary findings indicate that the cause of death is consistent with suffocation due to a Mylar-helium filled balloon. Additional testing and toxicology, are pending to determine the final cause of death.
"Coroner Keepes wishes to raise public awareness about the unrecognized potential dangers associated with large child size Mylar balloons. While often seen as harmless decorations, these balloons can pose serious risks—particularly to young children—including the rare but devastating possibility of suffocation and/or helium toxicity.
"The Wabash County Coroner's Office extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this heartbreaking accident. As a community, please hold this family in your prayers. Agencies involved in the ongoing investigation include the Mount Carmel Police Department and the Illinois State Police Child Death Task other information will be released at this time."
Gunner, who had just completed Kindergarten at Mount Carmel Elementary School, was remembered as a cheerful and adventurous child whose 'laughter brightened every room. He was the happiest outdoors-whether he was playing baseball, fishing by the water or exploring the woods hunting.
'He had a huge love for monster trucks and never missed a chance to go mud riding with his family. Gunner lived life with a fearless spirit, a playful heart, and a smile that will never be forgotten," according to his obituary.
The boy, whose birthday was on May 21, was the youngest of three children. The youngster's grief-stricken aunt, Bethany Hyatt, described him as 'an absolute joy and such a thrilling child to be around.'
Hyatt shared a tribute on Facebook on May 30: 'There's not a person that knew him that would say he wasn't an incredible child. There are no words to express how deeply we are feeling his absence. He will forever be in our thoughts and we will never truly recover from this. He touched so many lives in his short time here with us.'
