Vivek Ramaswamy donated $38,000 to Red Baron Pizza employee Walt Z in Michigan after a GoFundMe campaign raised $700,000 following a viral prank incident.
Walt Z, a father of four battling a mortgage, was filmed by an influencer who staged a prank to boost viewership. The influencer’s video showed Z refusing to comply, sparking outrage and a surge of public support.
Red Baron Pizza confirmed that Walt will remain employed and will receive the company’s employee of the month award, reassuring colleagues and the community.
Luke Oakenshield, a homeless veteran who launched the GoFundMe, raised $250,000 for Walt, but he himself faced homelessness, sleeping in his car, prompting criticism that the fundraiser was staged.
In a statement, Walt thanked supporters, emphasized privacy for his family, and hinted at possible interviews if handled respectfully.
The GoFundMe campaign remains active, with donors continuing to contribute, while Red Baron Pizza plans to keep Walt on payroll and the public watches for any new developments.