I think this story grew legs for a few reasons. Ms. Russell is pretty, she claimed to see a child alone on the side of the road (at night), and then she disappeared. Quite honestly it had the makings of a good mystery. It all fell apart quickly (like the Smollett story), but the initial information was intriguing.
She may have serious mental or emotional issues (look up Audrey Seiler), or she may be an “influencer” trying to become famous. Either way, I hope she is charged, or at least has to make full restitution for what the PD spent on her.
Also Emma Sulkowicz (Columbia’s “mattress girl”).