A 9-year-old boy is recovering from “severe burns” after his 12-year-old brother allegedly poured hot water on him while he was sleeping.
The incident took place on July 29 in Pennsylvania, according to a statement from the Lancaster Township Police Department (LTPD).
Authorities say the older boy heated water in a microwave before pouring it over his younger sibling, causing serious injuries to the child’s neck and chest.
The 9-year-old was rushed to the Lehigh Burn Center, though officials have not released details about his current condition.
According to the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office, the 12-year-old is facing charges of aggravated assault and recklessly endangering another person.
Police said the attack may have been connected to what is being called the “Hot Water Challenge.” The prank — which has been linked to previous incidents, including one involving a 15-year-old from Texas in July 2018 reported by ABC affiliate KTRK-TV — allegedly involves intentionally pouring boiling or hot water on another person.
PEOPLE has not independently verified whether a social media trend specifically encourages participants to pour actual hot water on others. However, a similar prank referred to as a “fake boiling water challenge” has circulated online, where someone pretends to pour boiling water to scare the other person. Popular streamer ishowspeed is among several online figures seen participating in this staged version.
In light of the incident, the LTPD is urging parents to closely monitor their children’s online activities. Officials recommend reviewing the Parenting Tips for Online Safety from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which offers guidance on safeguarding kids from harmful online trends.
