A 19-year-old TikToker has been arrested after making a fake emergency call that mobilized multiple emergency services in Blackpool.
On January 13, Kian King reportedly placed a hoax call around 2:30 AM, claiming someone had entered the sea near the RNLI lifeboat station. The call triggered a 90-minute search involving Lancashire Police, the fire service, ambulances, HM Coast Guard, helicopters, and lifeboat volunteers.
No one was found in the water. Police confirmed King has been charged with causing the wasteful employment of emergency services.
“After around 90 minutes of searching, it transpired this was a hoax call thought to be linked to boosting engagement on a social media account,” a police spokesman said.
HM Coast Guard also reported interference from a laser pen during the search, warning it poses serious risks to aircrew. “It is incredibly irresponsible to target aircraft with such devices,” the statement said.
This incident is not the first time social media pranks have caused trouble. In 2023, streamer IShowSpeed was warned by police after accidentally dialing emergency services.
Authorities reminded the public that fake calls can endanger lives and tie up resources needed for real emergencies.
King’s arrest highlights the growing risks of social media stunts that involve law enforcement and emergency responders.
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