TikTok star Asia LaFlore has sadly passed away at the age of 18, multiple sources have confirmed.
The internet personality - who used the handle @theylovesadity - had more than 550,000 followers on the platform, as well as a whopping total 31 million likes. Her content gained popularity for its refreshing focus on body positivity, self-love, and confidence.
LaFlore reportedly died on Wednesday (January 4), and while a cause of death has not yet been confirmed, LaFlore's family members and friends have appeared to allude that she died by suicide. Her sister, Yanna, wrote on Instagram: "My heart is shattered into a million pieces. Heartbroken. Please pray for me and my family. God, oh I don't know what is going on but Lord we need you. Asia why?! I loved you so much! Why did you do this?!"
While her other sister, Ryn, posted memories of the pair in her Instagram stories. "We love you baby," she wrote "I hope you at peace baby I love you SO MUCH I hope you knew that [sic]."
LaFlore's aunt, Precious, recently created a GoFundMe in the wake of her tragic passing, sharing the devastating news on the fundraising site. "It's with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we have to share the unexpected passing of Asia LaFlora on January 4. Asia was a loving, beautiful, smart and intelligent person. A life so beautifully lived and deserves to be beautifully remembered. All donations will be greatly appreciated."
So far, the family has managed to raise $7,600 of a total target of $25,000 for a fitting "homegoing service."
Many of LaFlore's fans also took to Twitter to express their condolences following her sudden passing.
"I can't believe she's really gone I watch her videos all the time and to wake up to this news is crazy. I deal with mental health issues myself and she was one of the influencers I would watch to feel better It's so sad that she lost her battle," one person wrote.
"I hope Asia (theylovesadity) is happy in Heaven. I didn't know her at all, but she seems to be happy, loving and caring from her TikTok's. My prayers goes to her supporters, family and friends! Please check up on y'all friends," another user added.
A further user tweeted: "Scrolling on TikTok still in shock Asia aka TheyloveSadity passed away. She was young, innovating and confident. I'll miss seeing her spread body positivity on my FYP. Reminder, take care of your mental health."
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to Asia LaFlore's family, friends, and fans at this tragic time.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in the US at 800-273-TALK (8255) or text Crisis Text Line at 741741.