Cops called on a boy selling ‘ice cold beer’ and burst out laughing when they looked closer at the sign

Note: This story was originally published in July 2019 and is being republished for readers to enjoy once again.

While most kids spend hot summer days selling lemonade, one clever boy from Utah decided to take a different approach—by advertising “ICE COLD BEER.” Don’t worry, though—it wasn’t what it seemed. Seth Parker, a young entrepreneur from Brigham City, Utah, set up his stand in front of a local church, leaving neighbors both confused and amused by his bold marketing.

Brigham City kid selling ‘ICE COLD BEER’ gets police attention. (Photo: Brigham City Police Department)

Before long, some concerned residents called the local police to report the seemingly suspicious setup. The Brigham City Police Department received multiple calls about a boy selling “beer” on the street and decided to check things out.

When officers arrived, they quickly discovered there was nothing to worry about. Seth’s sign, which read “ICE COLD BEER,” had a clever twist—the word “root” was written in tiny letters just above “BEER.” It turned out he was selling root beer all along.

Eleven-year-old Seth and his root beer have gone viral. (Photo: Alexis Parker)

The police department shared the delightful encounter on Facebook, writing, “Yep, he’s selling beer… ROOT BEER, that is.” Seth’s clever idea had captured the community’s attention—and everyone’s hearts.

Since his creative stand went viral, Seth’s “ICE COLD BEER” business has been booming. His witty branding drew smiles from passersby, and many shared their encounters online. One Facebook user, Deedre Coy Petersen, described how she “bought him out” and praised his sense of humor. She jokingly suggested that he might want to make the word “Root” a little more noticeable next time. Despite some puzzled looks from adults, she reassured everyone that “no children were harmed in the process of selling this playful ROOT beer.”

Brigham City, Utah, police responded to complaints that Seth Parker (center) was selling beer. It was root beer. (Photo: Alexis Parker)

Seth’s clever marketing and lighthearted humor earned admiration from his community, showing just how powerful creativity can be—even at a young age. His fun idea didn’t just sell root beer; it brought laughter and connection to everyone around him.

Once the story spread online, the comments poured in.

“HE’S SAVVY, NEAT AND CLEAN! HARD WORKING AND THINKING ABOUT WHAT APPEALS TO THE PUBLIC… HE CAN GO ANYWHERE WITH THAT MINDSET! AND WITH THAT COMMUNITY OF GREAT POLICE OFFICERS SUPPORTING HIM, HE’S ALREADY GOT MENTORING!!! LOVE THIS!” one person wrote enthusiastically.

Some commenters criticized those who called the police, saying they should feel ashamed. But the department responded graciously: “Our citizens should never feel ashamed or embarrassed to call us. They were just calling in what they felt was a suspicious circumstance. No harm, no foul.”

In fact, the officers not only cleared things up—they bought a few bottles of root beer for $1 each and helped advertise Seth’s stand by sharing his charming story online.