Social media influencer shot dead during livestream

Mexican social media influencer César Gastélum was shot dead while livestreaming on TikTok outside a fast-food restaurant in Culiacán on Tuesday.

Gastélum, known for posting comedy videos on the platform, was streaming live with two friends when two men arrived on a motorcycle.

One of the suspects reportedly shot him at close range before fleeing the scene.

According to local media, police initially believed the victim was a delivery rider because he and his friends were wearing bright yellow jackets and carrying delivery bags. Authorities later confirmed his identity.

No arrests have been made. Police said they are examining cartridge casings recovered from the scene and reviewing CCTV footage as part of the investigation.

Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the killing, and it remains unclear whether Gastélum had received threats before the attack.

His death is the latest in a series of killings involving social media personalities in Mexico.

MEDIA TODAY reports that in May 2025, beauty influencer Valeria Márquez, 23, was shot dead while livestreaming on TikTok from a salon in Zapopan.

Another influencer, Leobardo “El Gordo Peruci” Aispuro, was killed in Culiacán in December 2024.