Tragic Death of TikTok Influencer Valeria Márquez Highlights Violence Against Women in Mexico

Valeria Márquez, a 23-year-old TikTok influencer, was tragically shot and killed on Tuesday during a livestream at a beauty salon in Zapopan, Jalisco. Her death serves as a stark reminder of the escalating violence women face in Mexico. At the time of the incident, Márquez had been engaging with nearly 113,000 followers when the attack occurred. According to Denis Rodríguez, a representative of the Jalisco State Prosecutor’s Office, the assailant approached her directly, confirmed her identity, and then shot her before fleeing on a motorbike.

Márquez's TikTok account was reportedly removed a day after the incident, yet footage showing the moments before her death had begun circulating online. Eyewitness accounts describe her peacefully sitting with a stuffed toy before the tragic event unfolded. Law enforcement officials stated they are examining security footage and her social media to identify the attackers, who had previously visited the salon under the guise of delivering a gift. This incident highlights the vulnerability of women in the country, as it reflects a deeply rooted issue of gender-based violence that continues to plague communities across Mexico.