Popular NYC-based TikTok influencer and singer Chase Filandro has died. He was 20.
Filandro’s death was announced by his heartbroken family, who revealed that the content creator died by suicide.
On Tuesday, Filandro’s loved ones paid tribute to the social media star, who gained popularity by regularly sharing comedy skits and book reviews on his accounts.
“Our family is heartbroken and devastated by the sudden and unexpected loss of our beloved, Chase,” his sister, Francesca Ford, wrote on Instagram.
“It was Chase’s own decision to enter Heaven. His light will continue to shine eternally in the hearts of all those he touched throughout his remarkable, though far too brief, life.”
Ford said her brother “was a talented artist with boundless creativity.”
“He was a singer, musician, actor, teacher, artist, poet, and painter: Chase was a beacon of light with a magnetic personality and zest for life that touched everyone he encountered, both in person and online,” Ford’s tribute continued.
“Chase brought joy, creativity, and inspiration to so many. While our hearts are shattered by this tremendous loss, we find comfort in knowing that his artistic legacy and the love he shared will never be forgotten.”
She also touched on his love for the outdoors, where he spent a lot of downtime.
“Those who knew Chase understood his deep love for the arts and the outdoors,” she wrote. “His passionate spirit and genuine warmth created lasting connections with people everywhere.”
“We ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time as we grieve and celebrate the beautiful life Chase lived,” she added.
Given the late social media star’s passion for spending time outside, his family now plans to honor that by building memorials at two National Parks.
“Chase was an avid traveler and was moved by the beauty of National Parks,” the family wrote on the GoFundMe page. “He always welcomed strangers with a smile and made friends along all the trails he traveled on.”
The GoFundMe has since raised more than $31,600, prompting the family to speak out about the generous donations.
“Thank you so much for helping us reach our goal in only 13 hours, Chase clearly had such an impact on many,” they wrote.
“We are continuing to raise funds to now support the building of an additional memorial in New York that is closer to home. Thank you all again.”
In addition to his social media success, Filandro was a vocalist for the five-part indie rock band Just Add Water, which often toured in and around Long Island, since 2022.
His final performance with the band took place last summer following a one-year hiatus.
The Take 2 Studio acting school, located in Huntington, NY, also paid tribute to Filandro, writing on Instagram that he will be remembered for his “vibrant spirit” and “the joy he brought into every room.”
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
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