Children ate chocolate with 'magic' mushrooms and ended up in a 'zombie state'

Children at a summer camp operated by the YMCA in East Orange, New Jersey, reportedly consumed chocolate containing psychoactive substances commonly referred to as “magic mushrooms” and subsequently exhibited symptoms resembling a “zombie-like state,” according to reports from local media outlets. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, during which one child allegedly shared the suspicious chocolates with another. Shortly after, one of the children complained of feeling unwell, and within hours, approximately 12 other children began displaying similar symptoms. The affected children ranged in age from 10 to 13 years old. One of them, who already had pre-existing health conditions, was preemptively taken to the hospital. A mother who attended the camp with her 12-year-old son described the scene as deeply disturbing, stating that the children appeared “like zombies.” She expressed her anguish, saying, “It was heartbreaking, very heartbreaking. This shouldn’t happen.” Another parent, speaking to News 12, recounted that the children were preparing for water-based games when they ingested the suspected candies. She added, “Your heart hurts when you hear that your child has consumed something like this. My husband and I don’t use drugs.” Camp leadership confirmed that upon noticing the children’s distress, they immediately activated all safety protocols, contacted emergency responders, informed parents, and alerted law enforcement. Police quickly identified the teenager who had distributed the potentially harmful chocolates. As of now, no criminal charges have been filed against the individual. Investigators are currently working to determine how the minor obtained the product containing psychoactive substances and whether any illegal actions were involved. Phyllis Bindi, spokesperson for the police department, stated that the incident is deeply concerning, particularly due to its implications for the safety and well-being of minors. She noted that the investigation is ongoing and involves collaboration with other authorities to uncover the responsible parties. Magic mushrooms, often called “magic mushrooms,” contain naturally occurring psychoactive compounds such as psilocybin and psilocin. These substances interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered states of consciousness, hallucinations, distorted perceptions of time and space, and intense emotional experiences. In children and adolescents, these effects can be especially dangerous, as their brains are still developing. Potential side effects include confusion, anxiety, panic attacks, and physical issues such as increased heart rate or weakness. The YMCA, originally founded in 1844 in London, is one of the oldest and largest nonprofit organizations globally. While it originated with religious roots, it now operates as a worldwide network focused on improving the quality of life for young people and families. It manages numerous summer camps, sports centers, youth programs, and housing facilities, aiming to promote healthy lifestyles, education, and social inclusion within communities. In the United States, laws regarding psilocybin vary by state. In New Jersey, recreational use remains illegal, although the state recently approved a pilot program to study its potential therapeutic applications for depression and anxiety.