Suspected TikTok Challenge Sparks Multiple Fires in German School Toilets
Background
A spate of fires in the restrooms of the Berufsschulzentrum vocational school in Hechingen, Germany, has raised concerns that they may be linked to a dangerous TikTok challenge. In such challenges, individuals compete for popularity on the social media platform by creating and sharing videos that may be outrageous or risky.
Alleged TikTok Challenge Connection
According to Karl Wolf of the Zollernalbkreis district’s Education and School Administration, the possibility of a connection to the TikTok challenge is strong. "We have reason to believe that these fires may be linked to this reckless TikTok challenge, and we have found evidence to support this hypothesis," he said.
The school community has expressed dismay at the alleged involvement of students in such a harmful activity, which also wastes public funds that could be used for other purposes.
School and Police Response
The school is fully cooperating with the police in their investigation. Wolf indicated that the involvement of the criminal investigation department may be considered to enhance the search for the perpetrators. Security measures have been implemented, but details are intentionally withheld to prevent copycat incidents.
Prevalence of Challenge Videos
Videos of similar fires in school restrooms have emerged on TikTok under the hashtag #schultoilette. This suggests that the challenge may have gained traction and inspired imitators.
Study on TikTok Challenges
A study commissioned by the Landesanstalt für Medien Nordrhein-Westfalen (the media authority for the state of North Rhine-Westphalia) analyzed over 2,500 TikTok videos. The researchers concluded that approximately 30% of the challenges presented potential risks, while 1% were potentially fatal.
Common challenges involved self-inflicted pain or discomfort, such as accidental injuries or the "Hot Chip Challenge," which entails consuming an extremely spicy chip. The manufacturer of these chips has since recalled the product due to excessive spiciness. Another challenge, the "Blackout Challenge," involves holding one’s breath to the point of near-fainting.
Specific Incident
In the most recent incident at the Berufsschulzentrum, a toilet room was set on fire, allegedly using toilet paper as fuel. The damage was estimated at around €20,000. The approximately 200 students in the adjacent building section were evacuated, but no injuries were reported.
Other School Fires
While similar incidents have not occurred in other schools under the district’s jurisdiction, Wolf acknowledged that fires have affected schools operated by other entities.
Ongoing Investigation
The Hechingen police department is investigating the fires as suspected arson. An investigation into unknown suspects has been initiated since Monday.
