Influencer and rapper Lil Tay has died at the age of 14 her family announced today, five years after the controversial social media star – whose real name was Claire Hope – shot to online fame.
The news of her ‘sudden and tragic’ passing was confirmed by an unnamed family member in a statement shared on the teen’s Instagram account today – when it was revealed that her 21-year-old brother, Jason Tian, has also died.
Lil Tay became embroiled in furious controversy in 2018 amid allegations that she was being physically and mentally abused by her father as well as being exploited by her brother – with her mother also losing her job as a real estate agent over the youngster’s content.
‘It is with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news of our beloved Claire’s sudden and tragic passing,’ the post – which did not reveal the cause of death – began.
‘We have no words to express the unbearable loss and indescribable pain.
‘This outcome was entirely unexpected, and has left us all in shock. Her brother’s passing adds an even more unimaginable depth to our grief.’
The statement went on to reveal that both Tay and her brother Jason’s deaths are ‘still under investigation’.
‘During this time of immense sorrow, we kindly ask for privacy as we grieve this overwhelming loss, as the circumstances surrounding Claire and her brother’s passing are still under investigation,’ it continued.
‘Claire will forever remain in our hearts, her absence leaving an irreplaceable void that will be felt by all who knew and loved her.’
Speculation has begun circulating on social media about the cause of deaths with one user, Jesse Ryan, claiming to have witnessed the incident.
He wrote: ‘As someone who was at the scene I can confirm that both were together when passing. Due to car collision. The brother was driving.
‘Local officials are speculating “texting and driving” being the cause. The other vehicle occupants were okay with minor injuries.’
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RIP
She’s still alive.