A Colorado father's world shattered when he discovered the truth behind his son's seemingly innocent online purchase.

Daily Mail reported that Bruce Brown's 17-year-old son, Bennett, ordered what appeared to be an athletic supplement for $13, but the package contained a lethal substance that would ultimately claim the teenager's life.

The sodium nitrite substance arrived at the family's Colorado home in late November 2022. Unaware of its true nature, Bruce texted his son inquiring about the package but never received a response. Tragically, Bennett used the chemical to end his life the following day.

The Deceptive Nature Of Online Purchases

Bruce Brown, a former district attorney, was shocked to learn that the substance his son ordered was not an athletic supplement but sodium nitrite, a hazardous chemical gaining popularity among youths for self-harm. The preservative, typically used for curing meats, is fatal in high concentrations.

Bennett's purchase of sodium nitrite with 97 percent purity for $13.99, complete with two-day shipping, came from an out-of-state sporting goods store. The ease of access and low cost of such a dangerous substance have raised serious concerns about online sales regulations.

Bruce expressed his anguish, stating:

They shipped it in two days to him and it sold for the price of about $13. That was the cost of my son's life.

The Devastating Impact Of Mental Health Struggles

Bennett's mental health reportedly began to decline during the COVID-19 pandemic when isolation from peers and the challenges of remote learning took their toll.

The teenager also suffered from long COVID, experiencing breathing difficulties that disrupted his sleep and made leaving the house uncomfortable.

Compounding these issues, Bennett suffered a concussion that forced him to drop out of Arizona State University, where he was pursuing an English major. Bruce later learned that concussions and mild traumatic brain injuries are associated with an increased risk of suicide, a fact he was unaware of at the time.

Bruce reflected on his son's struggles:

A symptom of concussion is suicide. I did not know that. Nobody ever told me that. I think that just exacerbated the preexisting sadness that he was feeling.

The Dangers Of Online Forums And Easy Access To Lethal Substances

After Bennett's death, Bruce discovered that his son had visited an online forum where individuals encourage others to end their lives. These forums often provide detailed information about various methods, including the use of sodium nitrite.

The Centers for Disease Control has reported an increase in sodium nitrite-related suicides in recent years, attributing the rise to online forums where the substance is frequently discussed.

A study published in January found that sodium nitrite self-poisoning is becoming an increasingly used planned suicide method among young people.

Lessons To Learn From This Tragedy

1. Be aware of online purchases: Parents should stay vigilant about packages arriving for their children and inquire about their contents.
2. Recognize warning signs: Mental health struggles, especially following traumatic events like concussions, should be taken seriously and addressed promptly.
3. Monitor online activity: While respecting privacy, parents should be aware of the online forums and communities their children may be participating in.

It's important to note that no matter what precautions are taken, tragedies can still occur, and we should never blame the victim. Open communication and support are crucial in helping young people navigate difficult times.

Why This Story Matters

This heartbreaking incident highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations on the sale of potentially lethal substances online. It also underscores the importance of mental health awareness and support, especially for young people facing isolation and challenges in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The story serves as a wake-up call for parents, educators, and policymakers to address the growing issue of online forums promoting self-harm.

This tragic story of Bennett Brown serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers lurking online and the devastating impact of mental health struggles on young lives. It highlights the need for increased awareness, stricter regulations on harmful substances, and better support systems for vulnerable youth. The loss of a promising young life over a $13 purchase underscores the critical importance of addressing these issues to prevent future tragedies.