Is TikTok star Gabriel Salazar dead? Online tributes from friends express 'heartbreak'
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS: Gabriel Salazar, or Gabe as he’s known online, is a TikTok influencer with more than 1.3 million followers. On TikTok, he goes by the name @gabenotbabe. The 19-year-old from Texas, who also has 390,000 followers on Instagram, has reportedly died.
As per a report in The Sun, friends of the influencer said that the teenager tragically died following a car accident in San Antonio, Texas. But the tabloid also said that the TikTok star's death is yet to be officially confirmed.
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A GoFundMe campaign started by Chris Vazquez also mentioned his death. The text in the campaign page read, “I don’t know what’s real and not real anymore but unfortunately gabe past away on a car crash September 26 we couldn’t believe it the moment we found out. Don't really want to get into details because it’s so hard for us to even talk about the pain he went through. Never expected this happen but now you’re watching over us.”
It also said, “Gabriel loved his family and was always horsing around with her sister and little brother. He was always there with a big hug and smile, and his family will never forget those warm moments. He was so funny with a quiet sense of humor and sarcasm. I cannot believe that I am sitting here writing this. How is this real life? Words cannot express the heartbreak our entire community is feeling from the loss of our Gabriel. Your family and friends miss you.”
The text also said, “We are asking for support for his family. There will be time missed from work and funeral expenses that will be too much for his family to afford. Please consider donating and help relieve at least that sorrow and strain for his parents.” By Monday morning on September 27, the GoFundMe campaign had raised $12,606 of its $25,000 goal.
On social media, many mourned his death. One of Gabriel's friends, Instagrammer Rickey Flores, reportedly posted, "Rest easy brother,” adding, "Words can't even explain how I feel right now. Man I would do anything to get you back right now bro." The post included pictures of the two friends together. It also had a link to the aforementioned GoFundMe campaign.
Others expressed their condolences in the comments of Salazar’s Instagram — and even the GoFundMe page. One person said, “I always watched him and I feel so bad about those close to him and I want to help in any way I can. To know that I helps with anything his friends and family may need. My heart goes out to his loved ones, family, friends, and those who supported him.” Another person said, “Bro what I only hung out with you once but you were so chill and lit rest easy.”
One comment also said, “Did not know him personally but I do know he touched many peoples hearts with his sweet soul and I know he’s smiling up in heaven riding all the cars he wants in paradise. My prayers go to his family and friends and everyone who loved him. May he Rest In Peace.”