Gina Heslop
Nancy Walsh, a real estate agent, recently shared a warning about a new scam targeting kind-hearted people. Walsh posted about her experience on social media, cautioning others about abandoned baby equipment on the roadside.
She came across a stroller left alone on a country road, surrounded by trees, with her car being the only one around. This eerie scene prompted her to take pictures and share a message urging people not to get out of their cars if they see something similar.
The abandoned stroller was placed on a grassy edge beside the road, facing away from her car’s direction, making it impossible to see if there was a baby inside. Walsh’s concern is that this setup could be a trap.
According to her and many commenters, this could be a trick to get someone out of their car, making them vulnerable to robbery or assault. They suggested calling 911 and letting the police handle the situation instead.
Many people on social media supported Walsh’s warning. Some recounted stories where similar tactics were used to trick and rob people. One person mentioned that people often lie in wait, ready to rob or attack those who stop to check the stroller.
Another added that struggling families might use children as bait to lure in unsuspecting helpers. Despite these warnings, some commenters suggested that abandoned baby items might sometimes be left for others to reuse, though most agreed that the potential danger outweighed this possibility.
Other similar scams include individuals pretending to be unconscious by the road, with accomplices ready to ambush anyone who stops to help. Several commenters shared personal experiences to emphasize the danger.
One woman recalled stopping to help a man who appeared passed out, only to be scolded by a police officer who warned her that it could be a scam. Another person warned about women screaming for help as part of the same tactic.
Walsh’s post has been widely shared, garnering over 23,000 shares. Her message is clear: while the instinct to help is strong, it’s crucial to prioritize personal safety.
She advises staying in the car, locking the doors, and calling 911 if encountering such a situation. Her warning serves as a reminder to be cautious and protect oneself from potential harm while trying to assist others.
