HT7. Viral Facebook Posts About Missing Child Are False
Viral Post Sparks Concern
A Facebook post claiming a toddler was found alone at night in Hereford or King’s Lynn went viral, showing a bruised child and urging people to share it. It mentioned a “Deputy Tyler Cooper,” asking for help finding the child’s family.
Police Confirm Hoax
West Mercia Police said, “No such incident has been reported in Hereford,” and confirmed “no officer named Tyler Cooper” works for them. Norfolk Constabulary also stated the event didn’t happen in King’s Lynn and added, “We do not use the title ‘deputy’ in our ranks.”
Public Warning
Police warn that sharing unverified posts can cause “unnecessary panic” and disrupt actual emergency responses.
The Bigger Problem
This case reflects a broader issue: emotional hoaxes spread fast online. Authorities urge, “Verify stories with trusted sources before resharing,” emphasizing the harm in sharing false claims, even with good intentions.
