A 12-year-old boy from Tifton, Georgia, US, was left hospitalised with severe burns after his friends poured boiling water on his face during what they claimed was a “prank” at a sleepover.
The child, who had dozed off at his neighbour’s apartment, was with three other boys aged between 12 and 15, who were playing video games when one of them decided to pour scalding water on his face.
Severe Injuries and Emergency Surgery
The boiling water caused second-degree burns, mostly affecting the boy’s face, requiring him to be rushed to a burn center for emergency treatment and surgery.
His mother, Tiffany West, described her emotions upon seeing her son’s injuries:
“I really can’t describe it now. In that moment, I was just mad, hurt, in shock. Everything—I was seeing red. I was just trying to hurry up and get him some help.”
Police Arrest the Suspects
Tifton police arrested all three boys responsible for the attack. However, they were released to their families and are now awaiting their court hearings next month.
When asked by his aunt, Nachelle Austile, if he was feeling angry or sad, the boy reportedly showed no emotion, with Austile stating:
“He’s numb about it. You’ve got to be in shock to know your friends are capable of doing this to you. Somebody you trusted—it’s just horrible. He never thought something like this would happen to him.”
Long Road to Recovery and Mounting Medical Bills
According to NHS guidelines, second-degree burns typically take around two weeks to heal, though severe cases may leave permanent scarring.
The family is also facing a financial struggle as both parents have been out of work since the incident, traveling for medical appointments and caring for their son at home.
“My brother and Tiffany have been out of work since this happened with all the traveling,” Austile explained. “She is still going to be out of work to take care of him while he is recovering. She needs to be here for him.”
Additionally, the family believes the boy will need therapy and counseling to recover from the emotional trauma and rebuild trust in people.
Community Support and Fundraising
Despite their challenges, West expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community, with many sending donations and well wishes.
Taking to Facebook, she wrote:
“I woke up to so much love being shown to my son! Words can’t describe how thankful I am for each and every one of you! It brings tears to my eyes to know that so many people care for me and my son, and we are not alone in this.”
West also thanked those who have donated, saying:
“Every donation, gift, encouraging word, and prayer puts a smile on my son’s face!”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the attack as the suspects await their court appearances.
This disturbing case has sparked concerns over prank culture and the dangers of social media-driven challenges, with many calling for stricter consequences for those involved in such reckless acts.
