Mexican TikTok influencer shot dead while livestreaming at beauty salon

A tragic incident has shocked the social media world as Mexican influencer Valeria Márquez was shot dead while livestreaming from a beauty salon in a region known for cartel violence. The 23-year-old model and beauty influencer had over 113,000 followers on TikTok and was well-loved by her fans.
The fatal attack was carried out by a masked gunman who shot Márquez in the head and chest before fleeing the scene on a motorbike with an accomplice. Authorities believe that she was the victim of a targeted hit by a hired assassin. The murder is being investigated as femicide, a gender-based crime under Mexican law.
Before the brutal killing, Márquez had expressed concern about two men who had arrived at the salon claiming to have a \”very expensive\” gift for her. She feared for her safety and even mentioned on the livestream that she was worried about their intentions. Moments later, she was tragically shot to death while still broadcasting live.
The region where the incident took place is known to be controlled by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, one of the most powerful cartels in Mexico. Murders by hired gunmen, or \”sicarios,\” have become a common occurrence in the area. Investigators believe that the men who carried out the attack on Márquez were paid to do so and did not know her personally.
Authorities are also looking into the possibility that Márquez’s murder is connected to the killing of a former congressman in the same area just hours earlier. The shocking incident has sent shockwaves through Mexico, a country that faces high levels of violence against women.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has extended her condolences to Márquez’s family and has assured that the security cabinet is working with the prosecutor’s office to solve the murder. A funeral was held for the influencer, and the investigation into her death is ongoing.
The tragic killing highlights the ongoing issue of violence in Mexico, particularly against women. The country ranks sixth in homicides among its states, with Jalisco recording 909 homicides since Sheinbaum took office in October 2024. The investigation into Márquez’s murder continues, and authorities are working tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.
The shocking incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by social media influencers and the need for increased security measures to protect them. Our thoughts are with Valeria Márquez’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.