His teen tried a suicide chemical he got online and then sought help, but it was too late

Editor’s note: This article discusses suicide and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org . This story discusses a specific means of suicide to help inform readers of the dangers. We consulted suicide researchers, families and experts in our decision to name the substance.

Bruce Brown thought it was an athletic supplement when he first saw it.

Delivered in a standard UPS package to his home in late 2022, the yellowish-white powder didn’t spark major concern for the Colorado lawyer, whose 17-year-old son Bennett played competitive soccer. Bennett wasn’t staying at home that night, so Brown sent his son a text asking him what the substance was. He never got a response.

Later, Brown learned the horrifying truth: It wasn’t a supplement. It was sodium nitrite − a hazardous chemical compound Bennett ordered to use for ending his own life . Shortly after using the compound the next day, Bennett sought medical attention, but it was too late. He died on the way to the hospital.

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