Utica, New York – Kim Devins, the mother of Bianca Devins, continues to be haunted by online reminders of her daughter’s tragic death. Despite efforts to remove distressing content, disturbing recreations of Bianca’s death still surface online, perpetuating the family’s ongoing pain. The 17-year-old’s murder in July 2019 by a man she met on Instagram shook the internet when photos of her corpse went viral on various online platforms, triggering insensitive and even celebratory responses.
In an upcoming Investigation Discovery true-crime series titled “Deadly Influence,” Kim Devins sheds light on the dark side of social media and toxic online communities. Bianca, described as a “bright light” who struggled with mental health issues, found solace in connecting with others online due to difficulties forming real-life relationships. Despite her struggles, Bianca always offered help and support to others, showcasing kindness even in her darkest moments.
The series delves into the circumstances leading to Bianca’s tragic fate, including the relationship she formed with Brandon Clark, whom she met on Instagram. Their initially online acquaintance developed into a more personal and intimate connection, although the true nature of their relationship remained hidden from her family. Ultimately, the encounter took a horrifying turn when Clark took Bianca’s life and posted photos of her deceased body online.
The aftermath of Bianca’s murder exposed Kim and her family to a relentless stream of disturbing images and messages, which were constantly being shared and surfaced online. The family struggled to have these images removed, facing challenges with online platforms’ reporting mechanisms. Kim highlights the need for a more effective crisis response system and stricter regulations to prevent the dissemination of graphic and inappropriate content online.
Finally, Bianca’s Law was passed in late 2022 by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, establishing consequences for the unlawful dissemination of personal images, especially those related to crime scenes. While this legislative victory brings some sense of justice for Bianca, Kim continues to advocate for broader federal laws to hold social media companies accountable for the content shared on their platforms. Through her advocacy, Kim aims to prevent other families from enduring similar trauma and loss.
As Kim reflects on Bianca’s story and the events that transpired, she emphasizes the unpredictability and hidden dangers of online interactions. Despite her efforts to monitor and protect her children, the tragedy that befell Bianca serves as a stark reminder of the risks and uncertainties of online relationships. Kim urges parents to stay vigilant, engage with their children’s online activities, and prioritize safety measures, acknowledging that even the most careful precautions may not always safeguard against unforeseen threats.