These days, it feels like you can hardly go out in public without the chance of being caught online. We’re living in an era of viral videos and stories, where funny, awkward, or even deeply personal moments are shared across the internet instantly.
While this can sometimes be misused, it can also be beneficial—like when people are called out for bad behavior. That’s probably what people online assumed was happening in early March when a viral Instagram post showed what looked like a shocking message from a mother who’d left her baby in the car while shopping at Target.
It sounds alarming at first, but there’s more to the story.
Influencer Bonnie Engle shared a reel on Instagram that went viral, racking up millions of views and over 1,000 comments. The video begins with a close-up of a handwritten note on a car window that reads, “My baby is OK. He’s got his drink and snacks! I’m in Target. Be back soon!”
Naturally, the note raised eyebrows, but just a few seconds later, the camera pulls back to reveal that the “baby” is actually Engle’s husband, happily snacking on popcorn in the car.
Engle captioned the video, “Please no judgment. He’s safe and sound,” and viewers found it hilarious. One user commented, “My heart dropped… then I laughed so hard!”
While the video was all in good fun, it’s important to remember: never leave children—or pets—in hot cars. If Bonnie’s video gave you a laugh, share it to spread the word!