By Brittany Grenci, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Auroran What was supposed to be a dreamy sky-high adventure turned into a disappointing lesson for dozens of GTA residents who were tricked into purchasing fake hot air balloon ride tickets promoted on social media. York Regional Police say they\u2019ve received reports from \u201cnumerous\u201d victims who were scammed by a company advertising itself as \u201cThe Candle Experience 2025.\u201d The company promoted low-cost tickets through online ads\u2014offering hot air balloon reservations for just $45. One victim responded to a social media ad on July 4 and paid online to reserve a ride for July 5. But when they showed up at a park near 14th Avenue and Donald Cousens Parkway in Markham, they found a crowd of confused people\u2014none of whom ever left… <\/p>\n
By Brittany Grenci, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Auroran What was supposed to be a dreamy sky-high adventure turned into a disappointing lesson for dozens of GTA residents who were tricked into purchasing fake hot air balloon ride tickets promoted on social media. York Regional Police say they\u2019ve received reports from \u201cnumerous\u201d victims who were scammed by a company advertising itself as \u201cThe Candle Experience 2025.\u201d The company promoted low-cost tickets through online ads\u2014offering hot air balloon reservations for just $45. One victim responded to a social media ad on July 4 and paid online to reserve a ride for July 5. But when they showed up at a park near 14th Avenue and Donald Cousens Parkway in Markham, they found a crowd of confused people\u2014none of whom ever left... <\/p>\n