A Viral Warning About an “Abandoned Stroller” Scam Has People on Edge
A disturbing scam that reportedly targets kind, helpful drivers is spreading across social media, and one mother is urging people to rethink what they would do in a situation that looks like an emergency.
Her message is simple and urgent: if you see a stroller, car seat, or “baby situation” abandoned in an isolated area, don’t get out of your vehicle.
For many people, the instinct is immediate: stop and check whether a baby or child is in danger. Scammers, however, may be counting on that exact reaction.
What Nancy Walsh Says She Saw
Nancy Walsh, a real estate agent, shared photos of a stroller left on the side of a quiet country road. Her vehicle appeared to be the only one nearby. The stroller was positioned in a way that made it hard to see whether anything was inside, and the isolated setting made it feel even more alarming.
The post quickly drew thousands of comments—many from people who said they had heard of similar situations or experienced roadside “help” traps themselves.
How the Alleged Scam Works
According to warnings shared in the comments, the setup can follow a familiar pattern:
- A stroller, car seat, or baby-related item is left in a remote spot to trigger concern.
- A driver pulls over and steps out to inspect it.
- While the driver is distracted, scammers may:
- steal the vehicle,
- rob the driver, or
- threaten or physically harm the person who stopped.
Even when the stroller is empty, the moment someone confirms that and turns back toward their car, they may be vulnerable—especially if they are alone.
Not Every Stroller Is a Trap, but the Risk Isn’t Worth Guessing
Some people pointed out a more innocent possibility: occasionally, usable baby items are left along roadsides because someone hopes another family can take them instead of throwing them away.
That may happen, but the problem is you cannot know which situation you’re walking into—and scammers rely on uncertainty.
Similar Roadside “Help” Traps People Report
The abandoned stroller warning fits into a broader category of deception that exploits goodwill. People online also described scenarios such as:
- Someone appearing unconscious on the roadside while others wait nearby
- A person screaming for help to lure a driver to stop
- A “broken down” situation designed to pull someone out of their vehicle
Several commenters said police have warned them that these situations can be used as bait, particularly in isolated areas.
What to Do Instead: A Safer Response Plan
If you spot an abandoned stroller, car seat, or anything that suggests a child might be involved, prioritize your safety while still doing the responsible thing.
Do this:
- Stay in your car. Do not approach on foot.
- Lock your doors and keep windows up.
- Call emergency services immediately (911 in the U.S., or your local emergency number).
- Share exact location details: road name, mile marker, nearby landmarks, GPS coordinates if available.
- If safe to do so, take a photo from inside your vehicle and note the time.
- Drive to a well-lit, populated area if you feel uncomfortable remaining stopped.
- If you must pull over, stop where you have room to leave quickly, and keep your vehicle in a position that allows an easy exit.
Avoid this:
- Do not get out to “just take a quick look.”
- Do not confront anyone who approaches you.
- Do not leave your car running with doors unlocked.
- Do not assume you can “handle it” because you are trying to help.
The Key Takeaway
Your instinct to help is not wrong—but scammers may be using that instinct against you. The safest approach is to stay in your vehicle, call authorities, and let trained responders investigate. Protecting yourself is not selfish; it ensures you can get help to the right people without becoming the next victim.
