MOUNT CARMEL, ILLINOIS — A heartbreaking accident in Mt. Carmel has left a community grieving after a 6-year-old boy died of suffocation caused by a Mylar helium balloon, according to preliminary findings from the Wabash County Coroner’s Office.
The incident occurred on May 29 at a residence in Mt. Carmel, where Wabash County Coroner Shaun Keepes responded to what was described as “the tragic accidental death of a juvenile.”
Autopsy Confirms Cause of Death
The following day, an autopsy in Springfield determined the cause of death to be suffocation due to a Mylar helium-filled balloon, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The boy was identified by his family as Gunner Hyatt. On a GoFundMe page created in his memory, Gunner was described as the “craziest, most loving little boy.” The fundraiser has raised over $20,000 to support the grieving family.
Dangers of Mylar Balloons: ‘Harmless’ Decorations With Hidden Risks
In a statement posted on Facebook, the Wabash County Coroner’s Office issued a stark warning about the dangers of large Mylar balloons, which are commonly used as festive decorations due to their shiny, metallic appearance.
“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 office stated.
Mylar balloons are made from a plastic base coated in a thin metallic layer, making them particularly difficult to puncture or tear — a property that increases the risk of airway obstruction if inhaled or improperly handled by children.
National Data Shows Alarming Trend
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that between 2020 and 2023, there were six balloon-related deaths involving children 12 years old and younger in the U.S.
Officials are using this tragedy to reinforce safety messages surrounding children’s access to balloons, especially Mylar and latex varieties, which can become deadly in seconds.
Investigation Continues
An investigation is ongoing involving the Mount Carmel Police Department and the Illinois State Police Child Death Task Force. The coroner’s office stated that additional toxicology testing will be conducted before finalizing the cause of death.
No further details have been released at this time.
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