KFC Hoax: GoFundMe Suspends Donations To Victoria Wilcher
As a suspected KFC hoax has gained national attention, GoFundMe suspended all donations to 3-year-old Victoria Wilcher. Victoria’s grandmother, Kelly Mullins, claims the little girl was asked to leave a Jackson, Mississippi, Kentucky Fried Chicken. According to Mullins, KFC employees said the little girl’s facial scars were offensive.
Mullins’ story soon went viral, sparking outrage throughout the nation. Within days, the family raised more than $130,000 to cover Victoria’s medical expenses.
In response to the allegations, KFC offered a sincere apology and a donation of $30,000. However, the popular fast food company launched a full investigation into the alleged incident.
In addition to the internal investigation, KFC hired a private investigator. As reported by Laurel Leader-Call, neither investigation “revealed any evidence that the incident occurred.” Although the findings suggest an elaborate hoax, the company will honor their “commitment to make a $30,000 donation to assist with Victoria’s medical bills.”
Allegations that the KFC story was a hoax prompted GoFundMe to suspend all donations to Victoria Wilcher. The charity website’s CEO, Brad Damphousse, also offered to refund any and all donations.
Although the alleged KFC hoax is terribly disturbing, one fact remains — 3-year-old Victoria Wilcher’s scars are indeed real. As reported by CNN, Victoria was attacked by two pit bulls in April. Thankfully, the little girl survived the attack. However, she lost vision in her right eye and was left with numerous facial scars.
Victoria’s family vehemently denies the KFC incident is a hoax. In a Facebook post, a family friend issued a statement about the allegations:
“I promise it’s not a hoax, I never thought any of this would blow up the way it has…. Please do not believe untrue media. I have personally watched this family go without to provide for Victoria. They have not and would not do anything to hurt Victoria in any way.”
The statement remained on the Victoria’s Victories Facebook page for several hours. However, the statement, and the page, were later removed.
Despite allegations of a hoax, a Florida plastic surgeon has offered Victoria reconstructive surgery — free of charge. In an official statement, Stile’s office said “Dr. Stile remains committed to helping Victoria.” According to the statement, the doctor is currently arranging for Victoria’s transportation to Naples, Florida, for the procedure.
The KFC hoax has certainly gained a lot of attention. However, it is important to remember that Victoria Wilcher is a 3-year-old child. Although her family may be guilty of running a scam, Victoria had no influence on their behavior.
[Image via GoFundMe]
