Because it's morbidly interesting, it draws people's attention. Much like people obsess over horrible crimes or disasters despite their own chances of being involved being minimal.

The media has latched onto this as they realize it's a good way to garner views and therefore make money. Which is then picked up by partisan political actors as a way to motivate votes and donations to their party.

It's not much different than say the mass shooting issue, morbidly interesting, but you've a better chance of getting hit by a car on your morning commute or choking to death on your lunch than getting caught up in one.