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Venezuelan Influencer gunned Down While Livestreaming on TikTok
In a shocking turn of events, Gabriel Jesús Sarmiento, a Venezuelan influencer known for his critical commentary, was shot and killed while broadcasting live on TikTok this Monday. The influencer’s death has sparked outrage and prompted a formal examination by venezuelan authorities, raising concerns about the safety of social media personalities who speak out against crime and corruption.
Details of the Incident
The Ministry of Public Safety reported that Gabriel Jesús Sarmiento,met his untimely death in Maracay. Sarmiento, through his online content, frequently voiced strong opinions against criminal organizations and alleged corruption within law enforcement. The Ministry noted that his death occurred shortly after he reported receiving threats from Organized Crime Structured Groups (GEDOs) and purported police officials.
Maracay is the capital of Aragua, a region known as the origin of the Tren de Aragua gang. However, at this time, authorities have not established any direct connection between the gang and the influencer’s murder.
The livestream Recording
A chilling recording of Sarmiento’s livestream captured a woman screaming in the background, followed by a man questioning her outburst. The recording then captured a barrage of gunfire. Moments later, Sarmiento is heard yelling, “They shot me!” The livestream abruptly ended, showing what appeared to be two unidentified armed men.
Investigation Underway
The 69th prosecutor’s Office Against Organized Crime has been assigned to lead the investigation into Sarmiento’s death. Their mandate includes identifying and prosecuting those responsible for this heinous act. Efforts are underway to gather more information from Sarmiento’s family and the Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek William Saab.
Rising Trend of Violence Against Influencers
Sarmiento’s murder marks the second high-profile killing of a Latin American influencer during a livestream in recent months.In May 2025, Mexican beauty influencer Valeria Marquez was shot and killed in a salon in Jalisco, fueling widespread condemnation over the escalating rates of femicide in the region. Days prior to Marquez’s death, a mayoral candidate in Veracruz was also killed during a live
