TikToker Brianna Ghey, also known as gingerpuppyx, was found stabbed to death in a park in Warrington, England.
Brianna, who posted under the handle gingerpuppyx, had amassed 31,000 followers on TikTok, where she would post videos of herself lip-syncing to songs and trying on different outfits.
On February 11, the 16-year-old was found wounded and laying on a path in Linear Park, Cheshire, after she was fatally stabbed.
Brianna was a transgender girl, but detectives said “at this time” there was no evidence to suggest that her death was a hate crime.
A boy and a girl, both 15, have since been arrested on suspicion of her murder. Cheshire Police said they are from the local area and remain in custody.
Detectives have arrested two teenagers following the death of 16-year-old Brianna Ghey in Warrington.A 15y/o boy and a 15y/o girl, both from the local area, have been arrested on suspicion of murder. They are currently in custody assisting police with their investigation. (1/6) pic.twitter.com/0aSLdGgEme
— Warrington Police (@PoliceWarr) February 12, 2023
Family and friends pay tribute to Brianna Ghey
Since her death was confirmed, tributes have been flooding in online for Brianna.
In a statement, her family said: “She was a larger-than-life character who would leave a lasting impression on all that met her. Brianna was beautiful, witty, and hilarious. Brianna was strong, fearless, and one of a kind.
“The loss of her young life has left a massive hole in our family, and we know that the teachers and her friends who were involved in her life will feel the same.
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“We would like to thank everyone for their kind words and support during this extremely difficult time.”
A statement from the family of Brianna Ghey. May her memory forever be a blessing ❤️Please continue to come forward with any information that may assist the police, and avoid online speculation which will be distressing to Brianna's grieving friends and family. pic.twitter.com/64g37ddZlB
— Charlotte Nichols (@charlotte2153) February 13, 2023
Fans shared their grief in the comment section of Brianna’s last TikTok video, with one writing: “So gorgeous. So sad to see people in the world taken too soon, and in the worst ways.”
Another wrote: “My heart is absolutely breaking for you angel… I’m so sorry. Rest easy beautiful soul.”
In a tweet, LGBTQ+ rights charity Stonewall said: “Our thoughts are with Brianna Ghey, a young trans woman, and her loved ones, following her tragic murder in Cheshire.
“We urge anyone who may have information which will help the police with their enquiries to come forward.”
Brianna is not the first TikToker to have died in 2023. Earlier this month, Edgar Garay fell to his death while filming a video on a 21-meter cliff.