A Wisconsin family is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 11-month-old Don’Vyaire Avita-Mays, who died after choking on a piece of a balloon during a Halloween event just two days before his first birthday.
Don’Vyaire, affectionately known by his family as “Baby Don,” died on October 24, 2026, following a tragic accident at a trunk-or-treat event in Kenosha, Wisconsin, according to reports.
His mother, Kisha Avita-Wilson, told NBC Chicago that she had taken her two older daughters to the family Halloween gathering, where they received balloon animals. Although the family was trying to keep the balloons away from the infant, one of them unexpectedly came undone.
Don’Vyaire reportedly grabbed the balloon and bit it, causing the tied portion to shoot into his throat and become lodged in his esophagus.
His mother immediately pulled him from his car seat and attempted to save him by performing CPR and trying to clear his airway. Another person also attempted to help as the infant quickly turned blue and went into cardiac arrest.
Emergency responders arrived and attempted to remove the balloon fragment using medical equipment, including a tube and pliers. Despite their efforts, Don’Vyaire could not be saved.
The devastating accident happened just two days before the little boy’s first birthday, which was October 26.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Kisha is speaking out about the dangers of balloons, particularly around young children. She believes existing warning labels are not enough and is calling for stronger regulations and an end to marketing balloons to children.
“Balloons have warnings on them, but that is not enough,” she told NBC Chicago, expressing her belief that they should no longer be sold or promoted to children.
The tragedy has also taken an emotional and physical toll on the family. According to a GoFundMe organized by Don’Vyaire’s aunt and adoptive grandmother, Mary Lott, Kisha is 30 weeks pregnant and experienced early contractions and premature dilation following the devastating loss.
The fundraiser was established to help cover the baby’s funeral expenses. The family remembered Don’Vyaire as a handsome little boy whose infectious laugh and beautiful smile could light up any room.
As loved ones grieve the loss of Baby Don, they are asking the community to keep his mother, sisters and unborn sibling in their thoughts and prayers.
Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to the Avita-Mays and Avita-Wilson families during this unimaginable time of loss.
Y’all Know What sends love, prayers and heartfelt condolences to everyone affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.
