Was rapper Lil Baby found dead in a parked car outside his home? No, that's not true: The website that published the claim says it is a "Prank website that is intended for Fun" at the bottom of every page. Users can use the site, and others like it, to prank their friends and family with realistic-looking online news stories.
The claim originated in an article (archived here) published by Channel 22 News on July 6, 2021, under the title "Lil baby shot dead." The story opens:
Dominique jones, professionally known as lil baby was found dead in a car parked by his house.
The site is part of a network of prank sites operated by Korry Scherer from Milwaukee, according to WHOIS data.
The site seems to be part of a network of similar sites. So far we've found these, but there may be others:
- channel22news.com
- channel23news.com
- channel24news.com
- channel28news.com
- channel33news.com
- channel34news.com
- channel40news.com
- channel45news.com
- channel46news.com
All the sites come with disclaimers at the bottom of each prank:
We do NOT support FAKE NEWS!!! This is a Prank website that is intended for Fun. Bullying, Violent Threats or posts that Violate Public Order are NOT permitted on this Website.
