Young Victims of Social Media

Avery Ping, 16, died from an accidental drug overdose after ingesting a fentanyl and methamphetamine mixture that he thought was ecstasy and that he bought via the Snapchat social media platform. His death has led his family to join with others who have similarly lost loved ones to question the role of social media both in targeting young people and facilitating criminal activities. Legislation is pending in the state legislature to require large social media platforms to comply with law enforcement subpoenas within 72 hours. Martin Ping, Avery’s grandfather, talks with Mark Dunlea of Hudson Mohawk Magazine about the status of the legislation and the need for greater protection of young people from social media.