Suspect Arrested in Livestreamed Killing of Venezuelan TikTok Influencer

Venezuelan authorities have arrested a suspect linked to the livestreamed murder of TikTok influencer Jesús Sarmiento, who was killed after publicly denouncing the powerful Tren de Aragua gang and allegedly corrupt police officers.

Sarmiento, who had over 77,000 followers on TikTok, was broadcasting live when gunmen stormed a residence and fatally shot him. In his final moments, screams for help and gunshots were heard before the stream abruptly ended.

Attorney General Tarek William Saab announced Sunday that police had arrested Pierina Uribarri, described as the partner of alleged gunman Adrian Romero. Uribarri faces charges of intentional homicide, criminal association, and terrorism. Arrest warrants remain active for Romero and two other suspects — Wilbert Gonzalez and Gerald Nieto.

Sarmiento had used his platform to expose members of the Tren de Aragua gang, including its leader Hector Rusthenford Guerrero, also known as “Niño Guerrero.” Guerrero is one of Venezuela’s most wanted criminals, and the U.S. State Department has offered a $5 million reward for information leading to his capture.

The influencer also posted videos implicating police officers in extortion activities, prompting fears that both gang members and corrupt security officials may have been behind the attack.

Although Venezuela’s government insists the Tren de Aragua gang has been dismantled, the U.S. continues to classify it as a terrorist organization.

Sarmiento’s murder marks the latest in a growing pattern of violent attacks targeting social media influencers worldwide. Just weeks ago, a 17-year-old TikTok star was killed in Pakistan, and a 23-year-old influencer in Mexico was fatally shot during a livestream.

Authorities in Venezuela say investigations into Sarmiento’s killing are ongoing.