BUFFALO, N.Y. — A automobile crash that left 4 youngsters lifeless might have been linked to a TikTok problem, a police commissioner mentioned.
A complete of six youngsters have been in a dashing Kia that crashed about 6:30 a.m. Monday, Buffalo police mentioned. The automobile had been reported stolen Sunday night time.
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All 5 of the passengers have been ejected from the automobile, police mentioned. 4 of them, ranging in age from 14 to 17, have been killed. The fifth passenger was hospitalized in intensive care, and the 16-year-old driver was handled at a hospital and launched.
Expenses have been pending Tuesday towards the motive force. It wasn’t clear if he had an lawyer who may converse for him.
Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia advised reporters Monday that the teenagers might have been taking part in a TikTok problem that encourages folks to interrupt into Kia automobiles utilizing cellphone chargers.
The so-called Kia problem, first posted over the summer time, reveals tips on how to hot-wire Kia and Hyundai automobiles with a USB wire and a screwdriver. Many police departments across the nation have reported will increase in Kia and Hyundai thefts because the video was posted.
A category-action lawsuit filed in September in Orange County, California, alleges that Kias constructed between 2011 and 2021 in addition to Hyundais constructed from 2015 to 2021 lack anti-theft components known as engine immobilizers, making the automobiles simpler to steal than different fashions. The lawsuit seeks financial damages from the automakers and a nationwide recall.
Representatives for Kia and Hyundai didn't reply to emails in search of remark.