9-Year-Old Boy Survives Life-Threatening Burns from Charger Fire

URGENT UPDATE: A 9-year-old boy from Jena, Louisiana is lucky to be alive after suffering serious burns when his tablet charger sparked and caught fire while he slept. The incident occurred early on the morning of September 30, 2023, igniting a terrifying scene for his mother, Lauren Morrow.

Ashtyn Pitts was asleep when his necklace became entangled with the charger, leading to a loud bang that jolted him awake. “I started shaking, and I was screaming for help,” Ashtyn recalled. His immediate reaction was to alert his brother, who joined him in calling for assistance.

Ashtyn suffered burns to his neck and hand, prompting his parents to rush him to the emergency room. He was later transported to a burn unit in Shreveport for specialized care. Morrow expressed her anguish, stating, “I lost it, I started crying… we could be planning a funeral right now.”

This alarming incident underscores a growing concern across the nation, as several studies reveal many children sleep with their phones or tablets charging under their pillows or in their beds. The National Fire Protection Association has issued critical safety recommendations, urging parents to avoid charging devices in unsafe locations. They warn against using chargers not designed for specific devices, highlighting the potential risks involved.

Ashtyn’s case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with improper charging practices. Parents and guardians are urged to take immediate precautions to protect their children from similar incidents.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident and are expected to release further details soon. Families should stay informed about best practices for device charging to avoid potential fire hazards in their homes.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.