Police Warn Of Fake Instagram Account Seeking Donations For Dead Teen

Newport News Police are warning the public of a fake Instagram account that is asking for donations for the family of a teen who recently died. The family of Asia Cowell have confirmed to police that they did not approve of the account.

Donations are being solicited on the Instagram account kiethcarry_757 and Cash App under the name $HELPUS757. Authorities have reached out to Cash App asking to delete the account, according to WAVY 10.

Cowell, a 17-year-old from Norfolk, went missing earlier this month. She was last seen September 7, but her body was found last week after police received a call on the morning of September 23. Her death is currently being investigated as a homicide by local law enforcement and the FBI,13 News Now reports.

"The Norfolk Police Department will continue to stand with Asia's family during this difficult time," said Norfolk Police Chief Larry Boone. "The Newport News and Norfolk Police Departments will not rest until we determine what happened to Asia. I ask those who may know to yield to the nature of the better angels."

"Asia brought us all together and we will work tirelessly to continue her legacy of love," a spokesperson for Cowell's family shared in a statement. "Thank you for respecting our privacy during this difficult time."

There is also a fake GoFundMe claiming to want to help, but Cowell's family don't know who they are. The family has a verified GoFundMe page for people who wish to donate to Cowell's family.

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