The mother of an 11-year-old boy who tragically passed away in March after reportedly participating in a deadly online trend is calling for social media companies to take more severe action in preventing the spread of harmful content online. Tommie-lee Gracie Billington was found unresponsive at a house in Lancaster after inhaling dangerous substances. Tommie-lee’s family stated that he was a “loving boy” and really enjoyed being the life and soul of their house. Sherri-Ann Gracie has requested social media companies to take stricter action against harmful online content as videos are still available online that promote the sniffing of toxic substances, similarly to what Tommie-lee is thought to have done.
Sherri-Ann Gracie hopes that social media companies can take the appropriate measures before the same tragedy can happen to anyone else. She added that the loss of her son has created a massive hole in their family and their hearts. She also emphasised the importance of ensuring younger individuals are aware of such online activities, which could be encouraged and frequently shared on social media platforms. Tommie-lee’s older sister Crystal pointed out that she had seen comparable content online and had already reported it.
Although an inquest was opened into Tommie-lee’s passing, it has been postponed to allow for further investigations. Authorities had arrested a 25-year-old man from Lancaster over accusations of child abuse and neglect, but he is currently out on bail. Lancashire Police noted that Tommie-lee’s older sister Crystal and brother Tommie-lee were very close and that they had done everything together.
BBC Radio Lancashire is also instructing residents to listen to their local broadcasts on Sounds and to follow their official Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts for updates on their stories. Interested individuals can also send their ideas to Northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More