Mexico Security Cabinet Investigates TikTok Murder
MEXICO CITY – Mexico’s top security officials have launched an investigation into the shocking murder of a young beauty influencer who was killed while livestreaming on TikTok. President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that the case is being treated as a possible femicide, a term used for the killing of women due to their gender.
The victim, 23-year-old Valeria Marquez, was fatally shot inside the beauty salon where she worked in Zapopan. The incident, which was captured live on her TikTok stream, sent a wave of shock through a country already struggling with high rates of violence against women.
During her livestream, Marquez held a stuffed toy and appeared alert, saying, “They’re coming,” just seconds before a man entered the salon and shot her. The livestream briefly showed another person picking up her phone before the video ended. Emergency responders confirmed her death was caused by gunshot wounds to the head and chest.
Ongoing Investigation Into Femicide
The Jalisco state prosecutor’s office stated that no suspects have been named so far. Authorities are determined to find those responsible and understand the motive behind the murder. President Sheinbaum expressed solidarity with Marquez’s family and emphasized the importance of solving this case quickly.
Earlier in the livestream, Marquez mentioned that someone had visited the salon to deliver an “expensive gift” while she was not present. She appeared uneasy and said she did not plan to wait for the person’s return. The brutal killing highlights the dangers faced by women in Mexico, where femicide is a persistent problem.
Femicide and Violence Against Women in Mexico
Femicide involves acts of violence against women that can include sexual abuse, degrading treatment, or leaving the victim’s body in public. Mexico ranks among the countries in Latin America and the Caribbean with the highest femicide rates. According to recent data from a regional economic commission, Mexico shares the fourth-highest femicide rate with Paraguay, Uruguay, and Bolivia, with 1.3 cases per 100,000 women in 2023.
The state of Jalisco, where the murder took place, is also among the most violent regions in Mexico. It ranks sixth in the country for homicides, recording more than 900 killings since late 2024. The ongoing violence against women and widespread homicides underscore the urgent need for effective security measures.
Security Cabinet’s Role in Addressing Femicide
President Sheinbaum assured the public that Mexico’s security cabinet, composed of senior government ministers, is actively collaborating with prosecutors to solve this high-profile case. The goal is not only to bring the perpetrators to justice but also to address the larger issue of violence against women in the country.
Valeria Marquez had amassed nearly 200,000 followers on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Her tragic death while livestreaming has sparked conversations about safety for women working in public spaces and using social media.
For more updates on femicide and security issues, visit Filipinokami.com.