Mexico Investigates Killing of Beauty Influencer as Femicide
Authorities in Mexico are investigating the murder of Valeria Marquez, a 23-year-old beauty influencer, who was shot dead while livestreaming on TikTok. President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed on Thursday that the country’s top security officials are actively involved in the probe.
Attack Caught on Livestream
Marquez was in a beauty salon in Zapopan, Jalisco, when a man entered and fatally shot her. Seconds before the attack, she appeared concerned during her livestream, mentioning that someone had earlier arrived with an “expensive gift” for her. She was not present at the time and said she did not intend to meet the person when they returned.
The final moments of the livestream show Marquez holding a stuffed toy. She was heard saying, “They’re coming,” and responding “Yes” to a voice calling her name. She muted the audio just before the shooting. After the attack, a person briefly appeared on the video, seemingly picking up her phone before the stream ended.
According to reports, paramedics confirmed Marquez died at the scene from gunshot wounds to her head and chest.
Possible Femicide Under Investigation
Officials are treating the killing as a possible femicide, which involves the murder of women due to their gender. Mexican law defines femicide as a killing that may include degrading acts, sexual violence, or a connection to a relationship with the victim.
President Sheinbaum offered her condolences to the victim’s family during her daily press briefing. “An investigation is under way to first find those responsible and the motive behind this situation,” she stated.
The Jalisco state prosecutor’s office has yet to identify any suspects. In a statement issued Wednesday night, they said no formal accusations have been made.
Violence Against Women Remains High
Mexico continues to struggle with violence against women. In 2023, the country was tied with Paraguay, Uruguay, and Bolivia for the fourth-highest femicide rate in Latin America and the Caribbean, with 1.3 deaths per 100,000 women, according to UN data.
Jalisco, the state where Marquez was killed, ranks sixth in Mexico for overall homicides. Since President Sheinbaum took office in October 2024, the state has recorded 909 homicides, according to figures from consultancy TResearch.
Marquez had built a strong social media presence, with nearly 200,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok. Her death has sparked outrage and highlighted the persistent threat women face in the country.
with inputs from Reuters
