Country music singer Jason Owen is 'disgusted' after discovering 'fake accounts' posing as him had been asking community members for donations, claiming it would go towards the families of two young boys, who were killed, and another seriously injured when they were allegedly struck by a car in Wellington on Tuesday.
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Mr Owen donated $1,500 to the family of the boys and had urged community members to follow in his footsteps, but his attempt to garner support provided 'scammers' with an opportunity.
Mr Owen said after he announced his donation, as well as the release of a tribute song, The Climb, he saw multiple "fake scamming accounts" pretending to be him popping up over social media.
"They were asking people to donate to "my charity" to go to the families involved in the Wellington [incident], with fake bank accounts and all," he said.
"It's absolutely disgusting ... If I find out any information on who you are I will happily seek legal action immediately. These families need support. I suggest whoever you are that your crap stops now."
Mr Owen donated towards the GoFundMe pages for the children, via his charity Doin' It For Rural Aussie Kids.
He said the tribute video was also helping to bring in funds for the families.
"I can't stress to you guys enough, myself and Doin' It For Rural Aussie Kids are not taking donations for the families.
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Your story matters, your voice deserves to be heard and I would love to help you share it. I have five years of experience as a Journalist with Australian Community Media covering an array of topics, with a key focus on breaking news and crime and a passion for people. E: taylor.dodge@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
