New Zealand Teen Dies in Viral “Run It Straight” Challenge

19-year-old Ryan Satterthwaite died from a fatal head injury on May 26, 2025, after playing the viral “Run It Straight” challenge in Palmerston North. The game involves two players charging at each other full speed on a 20m x 4m strip—no protective gear, no helmets.

What started as fun turned deadly. Videos of the challenge have racked up millions of views on TikTok and Instagram, fueled by endorsements from pro rugby players.

Police Response:
Inspector Ross Grantham called the death an “absolute tragedy,” urging young people to think twice before joining dangerous online trends.

Expert Warnings:
Neuroscientist Helen Murray explained that even indirect collisions can cause “head acceleration,” increasing concussion risk.

Community Impact:
Ryan’s former principal canceled a planned safety talk after his death, saying it’s time schools rethink how they teach risk awareness.

Organized Events Under Fire:
At an Auckland trial for the Runit Championship League, over 1,000 watched players clash for a $20,000 prize. One participant collapsed post-impact. Critics say organizers are putting “entertainment over safety.”

Cancelled Future Events:
Auckland’s Trusts Arena banned upcoming events, including a $250,000 NZD championship match.

What’s Next?
Leaders are demanding urgent changes:

Mandatory helmets

Adult supervision

Government regulation for organized play

This tragedy echoes other deadly trends like the “Blackout Challenge.” Will platforms finally act before more lives are lost?

Follow for more updates and safety alerts.

#RunItStraight #HeadInjuryAwareness #ViralChallengeDangers #NewZealandNews #SportsSafety #TikTokChallenge #SocialMediaSafety #StopTheTrend #YouthProtection

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