A 19-year-old boy named Ryan Satterthwaite has died after joining the dangerous online trend called “Run It Straight.”
The incident happened on 26 May during a birthday party in New Zealand. Ryan took a heavy blow to the head while playing the game and was rushed to the hospital. He underwent emergency brain surgery, but sadly, he did not survive.
What is ‘Run It Straight’?
The game is a viral trend where two people run at each other at full speed and collide.
There is no safety gear, and no rules — only full-contact tackling.
Sometimes a rugby ball is involved, but the main goal is to knock down the opponent.
The trend has spread across Australia and New Zealand, gaining popularity through social media videos.
Why is it Dangerous?
Experts warn the trend can lead to:
- Severe head trauma
- Brain swelling
- Memory loss
- Mood changes
- Long-term brain damage
- In worst cases, death
Colin Morris, from brain injury charity Headway, said even a single hit to the head can have life-changing effects.
Professor Patria Hume, a sports injury expert, called the game “a step backwards” and extremely risky.
What Happened to Ryan?
Ryan was playing the game at a friend’s birthday party when he was hit in the head.
His uncle, Peter Satterthwaite, said it was supposed to be fun and called it “a freak accident.”
Police have confirmed Ryan’s death is not being treated as a crime.
Urgent Warnings
Doctors and police are urging teens to avoid the trend before more lives are lost.
They say the game is reckless, dangerous, and not worth the risk.
