In a deeply disturbing and tragic incident, Mexican beauty influencer Valeria Márquez was shot dead during a live stream on TikTok. The horrifying event, which unfolded in real-time in front of her followers, has shocked Mexico and ignited urgent discussions about gender-based violence and the dangers faced by women, especially public figures, in the country.
Valeria Márquez, 23, had built a loyal following across Instagram and TikTok, where she frequently shared beauty tutorials, makeup tips, and glimpses into her personal life. However, her promising future was cut short in a violent act now being investigated as a femicide by authorities in Jalisco.
What Happened to Valeria Márquez?
On Tuesday afternoon, Valeria was live-streaming from her workplace, a beauty salon in the city of Zapopan, Jalisco. She was seen holding a stuffed toy and engaging with her audience when she reportedly said, “They’re coming,” in a concerned tone. Moments later, a voice asked, “Hey, Vale?” to which she responded with a calm, “Yes,” before muting the live feed.
What followed was a moment of sheer horror. Márquez was shot inside the salon by an unidentified man. Although the live stream was muted, viewers witnessed someone picking up her phone, and for a brief moment, their face appeared before the stream abruptly ended.
This violent act unfolded in broad daylight and on a public platform, underscoring the terrifying ease with which femicide occurs in Mexico.
Why Is This Being Investigated as Femicide?
According to the Jalisco state prosecutor, the murder of Valeria Márquez is being handled as a femicide—a crime that involves the killing of a woman due to her gender. Femicide often includes degrading violence, sexual assault, or is committed by someone known to the victim.
While no suspect has yet been identified, Valeria reportedly told her audience earlier in the stream that someone had visited the salon with an “expensive gift” for her while she was away. She mentioned that she felt uneasy and had no intention of meeting that person, which may indicate premeditation or targeted harassment.
Femicide Crisis in Mexico
Valeria Márquez’s tragic death is a grim reflection of the ongoing femicide crisis in Mexico. The country ranks among the highest in Latin America and the Caribbean for femicide rates, with 1.3 deaths per 100,000 women according to the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in 2023.
Jalisco, where this incident occurred, is particularly plagued by violence. It ranks sixth in the nation for homicides, with 906 recorded deaths since President Claudia Sheinbaum took office in October 2024.
Activists and women’s rights organizations are once again calling on the government to take more concrete actions against gender-based violence, ensure justice for victims, and protect women in both public and private spaces.
The Legacy of Valeria Márquez
Valeria Márquez was more than a beauty influencer; she was a young woman with dreams, talent, and a strong online presence that inspired many. With nearly 200,000 followers across platforms, her voice reached far and wide. Her passion for beauty and content creation made her a beloved figure in the influencer community.
Her sudden and brutal death has left a void not only in her family and friends’ lives but also in the hearts of her followers who watched her grow and evolve online. This tragedy also serves as a wake-up call for the need to protect women, especially those in the public eye.
Final Thoughts
The heartbreaking story of Valeria Márquez being shot dead during a live TikTok stream is a somber reminder of the ongoing struggles women face in Mexico. Her murder must not be in vain—it should become a catalyst for stronger laws, better protection, and widespread social awareness about femicide and gender-based violence.
Let us remember Valeria not for the horrific way her life ended, but for the vibrant spirit she brought to her work and the inspiration she gave to many young women across Latin America.