Overview

• A forensic toxicology report found clear evidence that the child died after inhaling a commercial deodorant spray.
• Police reported no indications of third‑party involvement and are treating the case as an accidental death following an initial death‑investigation procedure.
• Authorities say it remains unresolved whether a so‑called “Deo‑Challenge” prompted the inhalation.
• Germany’s Federal Institute for Risk Assessment warns that inhaling aerosol deodorant can cause immediate loss of consciousness, heart failure and respiratory paralysis, with earlier fatalities reported.
• After the March death, a Hattingen school paused classes and offered counseling, and police and child‑safety groups urged parents to discuss risky online challenges and guide children toward safer alternatives.