12-year-old boy is left brain dead after attempting TikTok challenge

A 12-year-old boy from Colorado is in critical condition after reportedly attempting a TikTok challenge.

The ‘Blackout Challenge’ sees people choking themselves until they lose consciousness.

Joshua Haileyesus’ twin brother found him unconscious in the bathroom, and the family believe he was trying to choke himself with a shoelace to see how long he could hold his breath, Fox19 reports.

Doctors told the family Haileyesus was brain dead, and they needed to prepare to say goodbye to him.

Father Haileyesus Zeryihun says:“I was begging them on the floor, pleading to see if they can give me some time, not to give up on him. If I just give up on him, I feel like I’m just walking away from my son.

“It’s just heartbreaking to see him laying on the bed.”

The family hope sharing their story will inspire others to think twice about attempting social media challenges that could potentially cause harm.

Zeryihun says his son was no different to other boys his age, and loved football and playing video games.

He added:“He’s a fighter. I can see him fighting. I’m praying for him every day,”