Man Chokes to Death During Voodoo Doughnut Eating Challenge in Denver

On April 2, a Denver man choked to death while trying to finish the “Tex-Ass” doughnut eating challenge at Voodoo Doughnut Mile High, the Portland-based doughnut franchise’s sole Colorado location, 9NEWS reports. The Denver Office of the Medical Examiner confirmed on Monday that 42-year-old Travis Malouff died of “asphyxia, due to obstruction of the airway.”

Several eye witnesses say people tried to help when they realized Malouff was choking, but none were able to successfully perform the Heimlich maneuver. The incident took place in the Voodoo Doughnuts Mile High lobby.

According to the rules of the Tex-Ass Doughnut Challenge, the objective is to eat a half-pound doughnut, which the challenge says is equivalent to a half dozen doughnuts, in 80 seconds. The doughnut should have “a 7-inch diameter and 1.625-inch thickness,” and satisfying the challenge results in a free meal and button at Voodoo Doughnuts.

Voodoo Doughnut

In a news release, Voodoo Doughnuts wrote, “Our hearts go out to the Malouff family during this very difficult time. While this matter is under investigation, we believe it would be inappropriate to comment further.”

• Voodoo Doughnut [Official]
• Man who choked to death at Voodoo Doughnut identified [9NEWS]
• All Previous Voodoo Doughnut Coverage [EPDX]