Mexican authorities investigate death of TikTok influencer Valeria Marquez

The killing of a young influencer has reignited public concern in Mexico, where violence against women remains a deeply rooted issue.

Mexico’s security cabinet has launched an investigation into the killing of beauty influencer Valeria Marquez, who was fatally shot during a livestream on TikTok, President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Thursday.

Authorities are treating the death of the 23-year-old as a possible femicide — a gender-based killing — amid ongoing concerns over violence against women in the country.

“She was killed in the beauty salon where she worked by a man who entered and opened fire,” said the Jalisco state prosecutor. The incident took place on Tuesday in the city of Zapopan. No suspects have been publicly identified so far.

President Sheinbaum addressed the case during her regular morning press conference, stating that senior ministers in Mexico’s security cabinet are coordinating efforts with prosecutors to determine both the motive and the perpetrator.

“An investigation is underway to first find those responsible and the motive behind this situation,” Sheinbaum said. “Our solidarity goes out to her family.”

The case has drawn widespread attention, highlighting persistent concerns about gender-based violence in Mexico. Rights groups have long urged stronger measures to protect women and ensure accountability in femicide cases.

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