GoFundMe scams spread online after Ocean Springs teen’s tragic death
Fake GoFundMe accounts are surfacing online following the death of 18-year-old Nolan Wells, and Wells’ mother, Christine Wonsley, has taken to social media to warn against scammers.
Allayah Denis, a friend of Wells’ family, created an official GoFundMe campaign on Monday. The campaign was created to raise funds for Wells’ funeral and memorial expenses and has raised more than half of its $210,000 goal.
Multiple different GoFundMe accounts are also active online. Wonsley said in a Facebook post that she’s aware of the fake accounts, and that she authorized only Denis to create a donation campaign.
GoFundMe classifies using images or names of individuals without permission as fraud. According to a GoFundMe spokesperson, funds are held by payment processors until recipient information is verified.
“Our hearts go out to the family of Nolan Wells during this difficult time. Our Trust & Safety team is continuing to monitor the platform for any GoFundMes created on behalf of the family, and will remove and refund any not approved by the family,” a GoFundMe spokesperson said.
Since Wells’ disappearance on Saturday, July 4, speculation has also spread online. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department is asking witnesses with firsthand information to call the department at 228-769-3065 and speak with investigators.
According to Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter, the investigation is still ongoing, and officials are in the process of collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.
