A well-known Mexican social media personality was tragically shot and killed during a live streaming session outside a restaurant in the state of Sinaloa, an area increasingly plagued by violence from drug cartels.
César Gastélum, who boasted nearly 600,000 followers on TikTok and gained popularity for his comedic content, was filming alongside two friends outside a fast-food establishment in the city of Culiacán. The trio was dressed in bright orange jackets and backpacks, typical of food delivery personnel.
Suddenly, a motorcycle approached them, carrying a rider and a passenger. The motorcycle operator drew a firearm and shot Gastélum at close range.
A security official in Sinaloa confirmed Gastélum’s death to Reuters, noting that a significant security operation was underway in response to the incident.
This incident marks yet another instance of violence in Culiacán, a city that has become a hotspot for conflict as various factions of the Sinaloa cartel vie for dominance.
The Mexican security cabinet announced on X that they are examining multiple social media posts made by Gastélum, some of which are believed to reference a criminal faction. Authorities are also reviewing surveillance footage and other evidence to track down those responsible for this act.
President Claudia Sheinbaum stated on Wednesday that an investigation is ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying the shooter and any potential masterminds behind the attack. “It is essential to apprehend both the actual perpetrators and, if necessary, the individuals who orchestrated this tragic homicide, along with understanding the motives behind it,” she expressed during her morning briefing.
According to local reports, at least 12 social media influencers have been murdered in Culiacán since violence escalated in September 2024 due to infighting between factions of the Sinaloa cartel.
Influencers have also faced dangers in the neighboring Jalisco state. Last year, 23-year-old Valeria Márquez was shot while live-streaming from a beauty salon, where she had amassed a significant following on TikTok.
In a related development, authorities revealed last week that they had apprehended Ramón Ángel Álvarez Ayala, the leader of a criminal group linked to the Jalisco New Generation cartel, in connection with Gastélum’s killing. He has also been implicated in orchestrating and funding the assassination of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, which garnered nationwide shock when it occurred in November 2025.
