BBB warns of scams following police chief death, NFL player injury
The tragic death of Brackenridge Police Chief Justin McIntire and cardiac arrest of Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin have resulted in the creation of scam fundraisers, according to the Better Business Bureau.
A Friday news release from the bureau said in the days following this week’s incidents, legitimate fundraisers were established for McIntire’s family and Hamlin’s toy drive, jointly raising more than $8 million.
However, where there is a lot of money, the Better Business Bureau of upstate New York and Western Pennsylvania said there are scammers looking to cash in.
“In the wake of both circumstances, well-intentioned donors understandably want to help and provide proactive support in any way possible,” said Caitlin Driscoll, BBB of Western Pennsylvania’s public relations director. “BBB is warning potential donors to remain vigilant and always ensure your money is benefiting the intended cause and going to the right place prior to donating.”
On Wednesday, a GoFundMe page for Brackenridge police chief Justin McIntire, who was killed Monday, was identified as fake by the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office.
Posts made by the sheriff’s office on Facebook and Twitter warned the public to be aware that the page, created by a Michael McIntire, has no connection to McIntire or his family.