The death of a Spanish streamer during an extreme online challenge has prompted an investigation by local authorities. Sergio Jimenez, aged 37, reportedly died live on camera after consuming a significant amount of alcohol and drugs. According to initial reports, Jimenez agreed to drink an entire bottle of whisky and snort six grams of cocaine within three hours as part of a paid livestream event. He was discovered by his younger brother at their family home in Vilanova i la Geltrú, near Barcelona.
Upon entering the room, family members found Jimenez kneeling beside his bed in what was described as a “prayer-like” position, with the livestream still broadcasting. His brother Daniel confirmed that he had already passed away before emergency services arrived. The scene revealed an almost empty bottle of whisky, energy drink cans, and drugs on a plate near the computer, which continued to play audio from viewers.
The regional police force, known as the Mossos d’Esquadra, announced on January 5, 2024, that they are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Jimenez’s death. A police spokesperson stated, “We are awaiting full autopsy results and examining the circumstances to determine whether a crime has occurred.” This case has been characterized by Spanish media as the country’s first death linked to an extreme online challenge.
Family members had expressed concerns about Jimenez’s dangerous online activities. His mother, Teresa, revealed that they had received warnings months earlier about his increasingly risky content. “I got up to go to the bathroom just before 2 a.m. and saw the door to his room was ajar,” she recounted. “I asked him what he was doing but he didn’t answer. I could see him kneeling on the bed, as if he were praying.”
Reports indicate that Jimenez was streaming to a private audience, where viewers could donate money in exchange for increasingly extreme acts. Some viewers allegedly asked whether he was merely “sleeping off a hangover” while encouraging him to continue drinking. This situation has raised serious questions about the accountability of both viewers and organizers in promoting dangerous behavior.
The investigation follows heightened scrutiny of extreme livestream content, particularly after the death of French streamer Jean Pormanove in 2023. Pormanove’s death was tied to a viral broadcast that involved disturbing challenges and has prompted discussions about the responsibility of content creators in ensuring the safety of their audiences.
As authorities continue to examine the details surrounding Sergio Jimenez’s tragic death, the case highlights the potential dangers of extreme online challenges and the responsibility of platforms and viewers in moderating such content. The ongoing investigation will determine whether any individuals or organizations may face legal consequences for their involvement in this incident.
