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Celebrity

01st Oct 2021

TikTok star Gabriel Salazar died in car crash, police confirm

George McKay

The influencer has 2m followers on TikTok.

TikTok star Gabriel Salazar died on Sunday (September 26 September) in a crash during a high-speed police chase in Texas.

19-year-old Salazar, who was known as GabeNotBabe across his social media channels, was driving a white Chevrolet Camaro when officers tried to stop the vehicle at around 1.25am.

Police tried unsuccessfully to use a tire deflation device, according to reports.

Salazar was reportedly driving the car when it crashed into a tree and burst into flames. Officers reportedly tried to stop the fire but were unable due to a leaking fuel tank, according to News4 San Antonio.

Salazar was pronounced dead at the scene, along with three other people in the car.

Salazar was a lover of cars and posted a photo of himself on Instagram next to the Camaro that was alleged to be involved in the incident.

The Zavala County Sheriff’s Office statement read: “On Sunday September 26, 2021 at approximately 1:20am ZCSO deputy overheard a Crystal City Police Department officer initiate a traffic stop on US Highway 83 at the intersection of FM3292.

“CCPD officer advised he was in an active pursuit with a white Chevy Camaro that was traveling north on Highway 83 towards La Pryor.

“ZCSO deputy assisted with deploying a tire deflation device but was unsuccessful.

“ZCSO deputy stated that he later heard CCPD officer advise that the vehicle had rolled over and that it was fully engulfed in flames.

“4 individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.

“Texas Department of Public Safety is in charge of the investigation.”

Salazar’s sister Danna Salazar led tributes to her late brother as fans of the TikToker received news of his passing.

She wrote online in Spanish: “I’d give anything to have you here with us, we need you so much. I’ll no longer be able to see your beautiful smile. I love you little brother. I hope to see you soon.”

A GoFundMe has been set up to raise funds for a memorial to the influencer. At the time of writing, the fundraiser has received over $38,000 in donations.