César Gastélum killed during TikTok livestream in Sinaloa

Social media influencer César Gastélum was shot and killed while conducting a live TikTok broadcast outside a KFC restaurant in Culiacán, Sinaloa. The 25-year-old was attacked by two individuals on a motorcycle who reportedly shot him in the head. The incident was witnessed by thousands of people watching the livestream.

Authorities are investigating the murder, exploring potential links to organized crime. The attack occurred in a region experiencing heightened violence due to internal power struggles within the Sinaloa Cartel, specifically between the 'Los Chapitos' and 'Los Mayos' factions.

Data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) indicates a rising trend of violence against digital creators in the state. Since the beginning of 2024, there have been 20 recorded attacks against influencers in Sinaloa, resulting in 14 deaths, including nine influencers and five associates.