Boy, 13, Dies After Taking Part In New Chroming Trend
ArchiveFirst published May 18, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
A 13-year-old boy, Nicky Lowther, tragically died after inhaling aerosol fumes in a viral trend known as chroming or huffing. He was found unconscious at home in Canterbury, Kent on June 27, 2024, and later died in hospital despite efforts to save him.
His aunt, Toni Lowther, described the trend as “shocking” and “dangerous,” urging parents to talk openly with their children. “There’s no safe way of inhaling aerosols. It’s dangerous,” she warned, adding that around 12 cans were found in Nicky’s bedroom.
Nicky was remembered as a kind, funny, and protective boy. “He looked out for everyone,” Toni said. The family was devastated by the preventable loss and the future milestones he’ll never reach.
Toni has since launched a petition to restrict aerosol sales to teens, gathering over 5,000 signatures. “Nicky couldn’t be saved, but hopefully his story can save other children,” she said, urging awareness of the deadly risks behind this growing online trend.
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