TikTok star killed in shooting while broadcasting live in Mexico
A popular Mexican content creator was shot and killed while streaming live on TikTok, adding to growing concerns over violence targeting public figures and online personalities in parts of the country.
César Gastélum, known to hundreds of thousands of followers for his comedy content, was attacked in the city of Culiacán in the northern state of Sinaloa. Authorities say gunmen arrived on a motorbike and opened fire before fleeing the area.
The killing unfolded in a public setting while Gastélum was recording content alongside friends, leaving viewers and followers shocked as news of the incident spread across social media.
Investigators have since launched a homicide inquiry, examining surveillance footage and evidence recovered from the scene in an effort to identify those responsible. No arrests had been announced as of Wednesday.
Initial reports reportedly led investigators to believe the victim may have been working as a delivery rider because of the clothing worn during the livestream. However, authorities later confirmed he was the well-known social media personality.
Gastélum had built a substantial online following through humorous videos and lifestyle content, attracting more than half a million followers on TikTok. His social media pages frequently featured travel experiences, luxury vehicles and interactions with other internet personalities.
The killing has renewed attention on the risks faced by influencers in Mexico, where several online creators have been targeted in recent years. One of the most widely publicised cases involved influencer Valeria Márquez, who was fatally shot during a livestream in 2025.
Authorities have not established a motive for Gastélum’s killing and have not disclosed whether he had reported receiving threats before the attack.
The incident occurred in Sinaloa, a region that has experienced persistent violence linked to organised crime. Security analysts note that tensions between rival criminal factions have contributed to instability in and around Culiacán, where deadly confrontations have become increasingly common.
As investigations continue, tributes have begun appearing across social media, with followers mourning the loss of a creator whose online presence reached audiences far beyond Mexico’s borders.
Source: BBC
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