Mexican Social Media Influencer Shot Dead During Livestream in Culiacán
Mexican social media influencer César Gastélum has been shot dead while livestreaming, in a shocking attack that has once again highlighted the dangers faced by online personalities in parts of Mexico affected by organized crime. The fatal shooting occurred in Culiacán, the capital of Sinaloa state, where authorities have launched a major investigation to identify those responsible.
According to investigators, Gastélum was livestreaming with two companions outside a fast-food restaurant when two men arrived on a motorcycle. One of the attackers reportedly approached the group and opened fire at close range before fleeing the scene with the second suspect. Emergency responders confirmed that the influencer died at the scene from his injuries.
Gastélum had built a large online following of more than 600,000 people on TikTok, where he was known primarily for comedy and lifestyle content. Mexican authorities said they are examining his social media activity as part of the investigation, including posts that may have referenced a criminal faction, although officials have not announced a motive for the killing.
President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the killing and said investigators are working to identify both the gunman and anyone who may have ordered the attack. Security officials are reviewing surveillance footage and other evidence as the search for the suspects continues.
The killing is the latest in a series of attacks on social media influencers in Mexico. Culiacán has experienced sustained violence amid clashes between rival factions of the Sinaloa cartel, and several influencers have been killed in recent years. The incident has renewed concerns about the risks faced by content creators operating in areas affected by organized crime.
