Popular TikTok influencer Chrystofer A. Whyte, who boasted more than 100,000 followers, was fatally shot at a New Jersey beach last month. He was 18.
Police have since arrested and charged two men in connection with the shooting, according to a press release issued by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office.
One of the males, whose name is being withheld due to his age, is currently being held on murder charges at a juvenile detention center.
The juvenile’s alleged accomplice, 18-year-old Dwayne Exilus, was charged with several crimes, including second-degree conspiracy to commit unlawful possession of a weapon.
The Long Branch Police Department responded to reports of a shooting at Pier Village in Long Branch at 8:58 p.m. on June 12, where they found Whyte suffering from a single gunshot wound.
Whyte, of North Brunswick, was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation is ongoing.
Earlier that day, the social media star — who posted content under the username hi.imchrys — shared two videos on the popular platform.
“Stay away from ppl that ignore you until they need you,” he wrote to followers in one video.
In another clip, the TikTok star posted a clip from the beach where he was murdered, tagging #longbranch in the caption.
The video was ultimately his final upload, and showed him sitting in a beach chair.
Aside from his success as a social media star, Whyte was also a student athlete who played football and wrestled for Woodbridge High School.
Following the news of his death, Whyte’s former football coach Joseph LaSala paid his respects in a tribute.
“Chrys was an unbelievable kid,” LaSala told TAPinto Middletown. “He brought energy and enthusiasm every day.”
“He was respectful, focused and a joy to coach. This is heartbreaking,” added LaSala, who worked with the teen for three seasons.
Whyte’s close friend Jaiden Roche has since launched a GoFundMe page to help pay for Whyte’s funeral expenses.
The fundraising page has since raised more than $16,000.
“He meant so much to everyone,” Roche wrote. “This tragedy has a huge impact on his family and friends. He was very loved by many and this all still seems like a dream. … It’s my duty to make sure he goes out with a bang and a beautiful last goodbye.”
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