Dominique Brown, a popular Disney influencer known for her heartfelt connection to the Disney community, tragically passed away at the young age of 34 after suffering from an allergic reaction at a holiday food event organized by BoxLunch. This event took place on December 5, 2024, at Vibiana, a historic venue located in downtown Los Angeles. Dominique was well-respected among her peers, having garnered significant admiration for her vibrant personality and her passion for everything Disney.
Sources indicate Dominique was informed by event staff about the dish she consumed, which they assured her contained no allergens. According to reports from People and the Daily Mail, shortly after eating, she began to feel unwell, prompting immediate concern among her friends. Witnesses described how Dominique, who had publicly shared her struggle with peanut allergies, sought help as soon as she recognized the signs of her allergic reaction.
A close friend of Dominique shared on social media, recounting the frantic moments after she consumed the food: "She was my mom’s best friend of 10 years. She asked if there was peanuts in the food and everyone told her no. When she instantly felt bad, she asked someone to take her to the hospital." Despite the quick action taken by attendees, including administering CPR, Dominique sadly passed away not long afterward.
While the exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed, it is believed the allergic reaction led to complications. The specifics of the food item responsible for triggering the allergic response have not been disclosed publicly.
Dominique's brother, Patrick Ramos, expressed deep sadness over her passing on her final Instagram post, thanking the community around her for their support. He stated, "Disney did bring her joy, but it was unparalleled she found a community who loved her and Disney as much as she did. I will miss my sister and best friend and her infectious smile."
Through her Instagram account, where she gained thousands of followers under the handle @HellooDomo, and co-founding the online community Black Girl Disney with her friend Mia Von, Dominique aimed to create representation for women of color who love the brand’s films and theme parks. The initiative began when they recognized the lack of visibility for Black voices within the Disney influencing space, and quickly blossomed, forming a close-knit community.
The news of Dominique's untimely death has sent shockwaves through both her followers and fellow influencers. Many took to social media to pay their respects, reflecting on her kindness and the positive impact she made. Fellow Disney influencers described her as "a beacon of light" and expressed sorrow over losing such a genuine spirit.
BoxLunch, the retailer hosting the event, issued a statement expressing their devastation at the loss. They reiterated their commitment to pay full attention to the safety of their guests, acknowledging it as their top priority. A spokesperson remarked, "Our hearts go out to her family and friends. We will do everything we can to support them during this painful time." The company also stated they would conduct their own investigation following the incident to prevent future occurrences.
This tragic incident has reignited conversations on food allergies, particularly around the handling of allergens at public events. Advocate groups and health professionals stress the importance of accurate food labeling and the responsibility of event organizers to be fully aware of guests' dietary restrictions.
Dominique Brown's legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the Disney fan community. Her remarkable zest for life, genuine passion for Disney, and outreach work with her fellow influencers have left an indelible mark. Her passing not only highlights the necessity of proper food handling practices to protect those with allergies but serves as a reminder of the joyful spirit she brought to everyone she encountered. Dominique might be gone, but her joy and love for Disney—and those connections she formed—will forever remain etched in the hearts of all who knew her.