Child tragically dies in ‘balloon’ accident in Wabash County, coroner confirms

WABASH CO., Ill. (WFIE) - An investigation into the accidental death of a juvenile in Wabash County is ongoing.

Coroner Shaun Keepes says he was called to a home in Mt. Carmel last Thursday for that tragic incident.

He says preliminary findings of the autopsy indicate the cause of death is consistent with suffocation due to a Mylar-helium filled balloon.

The coroner’s office is hoping to raise public awareness about the unrecognized potential dangers associated with large child-size Mylar balloons.

“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," he says.

Keepes says additional testing is pending to determine the final cause of death.

“The Wabash County Coroner’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this heartbreaking accident,” he adds. “As a community, please hold this family in your prayers.”

The Mount Carmel Police Department and the Illinois State Police Child Death Task Force are also investigating the incident.