Boy Playing Game Nearly Hangs Self
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IRVINE — A 14-year-old boy was in critical condition Wednesday night after he nearly hanged himself from a tree accidentally while playing with a friend, police said.
Todd Abdulla of Irvine was playing with another 14-year-old boy in Pinewood Park on Hudson in the Northwood section about 3 p.m., said Lt. Mike White. During a game, Abdulla stepped up on a bucket and placed a knotted rope around his neck.
For an unknown reason, the bucket slipped out from underneath the boy, as his friend looked on.
Police said it does not appear that the friend, who was not identified, had anything to do with the incident. “It appears they were just playing around,” White said.
As Abdulla gasped for air, his friend ran for help, police said.
Some neighbors saw the boy hanging from the tree and raced out to cut the rope, White said.
Abdulla was taken to Irvine Medical Center, where he was listed in critical condition.
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