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Bogus GoFundMe Campaign Exploits Search for Missing Nova Scotia Siblings

GoFundMe has removed the impersonating fundraiser after it was flagged by Halifax Search and Rescue

Searchers return to the base camp after looking for six year old Lilly Sullivan and four year old Jack Sullivan, two children missing since May 2, in Lansdowne Station, N.S., Wednesday, May 7, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ron Ward

Overview

  • Halifax Search and Rescue warned on June 5 that scammers set up a fake campaign aiming to raise $100,000 for a drone search for Jack and Lilly Sullivan.
  • Director Paul Service says the non-profit never runs individual GoFundMe fundraisers and is concerned such scams could deter support for legitimate searches.
  • GoFundMe confirmed it removed the campaign and opened an investigation following reports to CBC.
  • RCMP continues to treat the siblings’ May 2 disappearance in Lansdowne Station as suspicious, with recent searches focusing on dense woods near Gairloch Road.
  • Investigators have received over 355 tips and conducted more than 50 interviews as police and volunteers press on.