Teen Dies After Trying Social Media Trend ‘Dusting’: “We Don’t Have Children to Bury Them”

A family in Arizona is grieving the tragic and preventable loss of their 19-year-old daughter after she took part in a dangerous social media trend known as “dusting,” or “chroming.” Renna O’Rourke died on June 1 after being declared brain dead following four days in the intensive care unit. Her parents are now speaking out, determined to turn their pain into a warning for others.

“She always said, ‘I’m gonna be famous, Dad. Just you watch. I’m gonna be famous,’” her father, Aaron O’Rourke, told AZ Family in an emotional interview, sitting beside his wife Dana. “Unfortunately, this is not under the most optimal of circumstances.”

What Is “Dusting”?

The viral trend that led to Renna’s death involves inhaling the contents of compressed air dusters—products used to clean electronics. Participants often seek a short-lived high similar to intoxication. Known as “dusting” or “huffing,” the practice can be deadly, even on the first attempt.

“There’s no ID required. It’s odorless. It’s everything kids look for,” Dana explained. “They can afford it, they can get it, and it doesn’t show in mom and dad’s drug test.”

Renna’s parents say she likely thought the activity was harmless or wouldn’t lead to anything serious. But within minutes of inhaling the spray, she collapsed. Despite being rushed to the hospital, she never regained consciousness. Doctors ultimately confirmed her cause of death as sudden sniffing death syndrome—a condition that occurs when inhalants trigger fatal heart arrhythmias.

A Family’s Grief Turns to Advocacy

Renna’s parents are now trying to make sure other families don’t suffer the same heartbreak. Through a GoFundMe campaign, they are raising funds not just to cover Renna’s funeral and medical costs, but also to increase public awareness about the dangers of dusting and similar trends.

Dr. Randy Weisman, head of the ICU at HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center, where Renna was treated, confirmed the dangers of inhaling substances like compressed air. “These chemicals displace oxygen in the lungs and bloodstream,” he said. “People feel euphoric briefly, but the consequences can include liver damage, heart failure, and even death.”

The practice, he emphasized, is particularly deceptive because it’s legal to purchase the product and because it doesn’t show up on routine drug screenings. “It’s a hidden danger,” he warned.

Renna’s Life and Legacy

Renna wasn’t just another face in the crowd. She was a talented singer who loved music and had a vivacious spirit, according to her family. “She was vivacious and caring and loyal,” Dana said through tears.

Footage shared by the family with AZ Family showed Renna singing in the kitchen, flawlessly hitting each note. Her parents said she had dreams of becoming a star and was confident she’d one day be famous. Sadly, her fame has come in the worst possible way—through her death, not her talent.

“We don’t have children to bury them,” Dana said, voicing the grief of a parent enduring an unimaginable loss.

A Message to Other Parents

Aaron and Dana are urging other parents to be vigilant—especially in a digital age where social media trends can take hold rapidly and spread misinformation or normalize harmful behavior.

“Don’t take your kids’ word for it. Dig deep. Search their rooms,” Dana urged. “Don’t trust—and that sounds horrible, but it could save their life.”

Their hope now is to save others by making Renna’s story a wake-up call. As the video of her last song circulates, her voice serves as a haunting reminder of a vibrant life cut short by one ill-fated decision.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free and confidential help.