A TikTok challenge went viral. This week, the consequences turned fatal

A search for 'the kia boyz' on TikTok indicates the subject has attracted 5.9 billion views, and while representatives from that social media platform have said there's increased vigilance about removing these instructional videos, it is not difficult to find users bragging about stolen-car conquests, or other users showing the aftermath of what car thieves have done after stealing their Kias or Hyundais. — Photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash

A rise in thefts of Kia and Hyundai vehicles began to take root in the Midwest, hitting Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota relentlessly since last year.

But the trend exploded over the summer as a result of viral challenge on TikTok, and may now be fuelling illegal activity in Buffalo — and revealing a deadly side that has local law enforcement on high alert.