A tragic incident in Thailand has brought renewed attention to the risks of online dares. Twenty-one-year-old influencer Thankam Kanthee, known to his followers as “Bank Leicester,” died after accepting a challenge to drink an entire bottle of whiskey in exchange for the equivalent of about $875.

Kanthee had built an online following by attempting extreme stunts, often as a way to earn money for his family. His past challenges reportedly included consuming unsafe items, such as hand sanitizer, and eating unusually large amounts of spicy foods. On December 26, at a birthday gathering in Chanthaburi, he agreed to attempt the risky drinking challenge. Party guests were heard encouraging him, but shortly afterward he became violently ill.

By early morning, Kanthee had lost consciousness. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors determined he had died from alcohol poisoning. His followers reacted with shock and sadness, many expressing regret that the situation had escalated to such a dangerous level.

Local authorities launched an investigation soon after. Police have charged the party’s host, Ekkachart “Em” Meephrom, with negligence leading to death — an offense in Thailand that can result in significant prison time or fines. Meephrom surrendered to police and is being held while the investigation continues.

Kanthee’s death has sparked conversations about the pressures social-media personalities face and the risks tied to viral challenges. Many online followers have urged others to think carefully before participating in or encouraging dangerous stunts.