Cesar Gastelum, a Mexican social media influencer known for comedy, was shot and killed on a Tuesday while conducting a TikTok livestream. claim:1
At the time of the shooting, Gastelum and two friends were dressed as food delivery workers as part of a challenge. claim:5
The incident took place in Culiacan, the capital of Sinaloa, Mexico. claim:4, claim:10. Reports indicate the shooting occurred outside a fast food restaurant, while other accounts state it happened in a busy shopping plaza near the Sinaloa prosecutor's office. claim:4
Two individuals wearing helmets on a motorcycle approached Gastelum and his friends before the shooting. claim:6. Livestream footage appears to show the motorcycle driver firing a gun directly at Gastelum's head. claim:7
Cesar Gastelum's approximate TikTok following at the time of his death.
Local police initially identified the victim as a delivery worker before confirming his identity as Gastelum. claim:9. A security official in Sinaloa confirmed the death and stated that a significant security operation is underway. claim:8
Context of violence in Sinaloa
The Sinaloa Cartel has been involved in nearly two years of violence in Sinaloa, Mexico. claim:11. Local media reports that around a dozen influencers have been killed in recent years in Sinaloa. claim:19
In January 2025, a small plane reportedly dropped pamphlets in Culiacan, Sinaloa, threatening approximately 20 artists and YouTubers regarding alleged dealings with a Sinaloa drug cartel faction. claim:18
Gastelum, who was approximately 24 or 25 years old, was a prominent figure on TikTok. claim:3
