Child likely suffocated at home from a Mylar helium-filled balloon, coroner says

WABASH COUNTY, Ill. (WFIE/Gray News) - An ongoing investigation into the death of a child in Illinois revealed that he likely suffocated from a balloon.

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

The obituary for 6-year-old Gunner Hyatt says he ed away on May 29.

It said Gunner was a joyful and fun-spirited little boy whose laughter brightened every room.

According to Keepes, 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 now hoping to raise public awareness about the unrecognized potential dangers associated with large, child-sized 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 said.

Keepes said 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 said. “As a community, please hold this family in your prayers.”

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

Gunner’s family has set up a GoFundMe to help pay for his funeral expenses.

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

Gunner’s family has set up a GoFundMe to help them as they grieve his loss.

Copyright 2025 WFIE via Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.