Ariiela Lalangosta shot? Influencer dies in NYC, Tekashi 6ix9ine pays tribute

Ariiela Lalangosta, popular Dominican influencer, was allegedly shot and killed in NYC. Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine wrote, “there is no heart more beautiful.”

Updated on: Aug 19, 2025, 03:53:21 IST

By Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan

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Dominican influencer Ariiela Lalangosta, popularly known as Ariela the Lobster, has passed away. Unconfirmed social media reports claim she was shot and killed in New York City early Sunday.

Dominican influencer Ariiela Lalangosta was allegedly shot dead in NYC. (Instagram/ Ariiela Lalangosta and Instagram/ Tekashi 6ix9ine)

According to some accounts, shots were fired at her vehicle while she was returning from a club. Other reports suggest the gunfire was aimed not at her, but at the person sitting beside her, reportedly her partner.

However, none of these details have been confirmed by local authorities or the influencer’s family. Hindustan Times was unable to independently verify the reports.

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On Saturday night, Lalangosta shared several videos on her Instagram Story, partying at Ikon New York, a lounge located on Sherman Avenue in Manhattan. According to social media reports, she worked there as a waitress and was well-loved by patrons.

Ikon New York confirmed her passing in a heartfelt Instagram post:

“Today we lost our shining star Ariiela Lalangosta. Our hearts are broken. Your joy, your humility, and the way you treated everyone with so much care always made you stand out. Thank you for giving so much love and support to our home, which also became yours. To Ariela’s family, we are here for anything you need. We still can’t believe it… you were our smile, our happiness. We love you and we will miss you forever."

The post did not disclose details about the manner of death.

Starlets of New York, a nightclub in Queens, paid tribute on Instagram, writing: “She was a one-of-a-kind soul — a beautiful friend, loving mother, and daughter whose smile and energy lit up every room she entered. Her energy will forever be missed, but her spirit will always live on with us.”

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6ix9ine pays tribute

Rapper 6ix9ine, also known as Tekashi 6ix9ine, shared multiple photos and videos of Lalangosta on Instagram Story.

"There is no heart more beautiful. Rest in peace, Ariiela Lalangosta," he wrote.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan leads the US Desk at Hindustan Times, where she writes, strategises coverage, and ensures quality across all beats. With eight years of experience covering US news for leading publications, she has reported extensively on politics, entertainment, and sports. Vaishnavi holds a graduate degree in English, Journalism, and Psychology, and completed her PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the Manorama School of Communication, where she was awarded the prestigious Mammen Mappillai Award for Best Outgoing Student. She began her career at the International Business Times (US Edition), covering US breaking news, politics, and entertainment. She later joined Opoyi, reporting across all beats, including US sports and trending stories. Prior to Hindustan Times, she served as World Lead at Times Now News, covering comprehensive world news and events. Vaishnavi has expertise in politics, entertainment, and breaking news, and enjoys tackling stories across a wide range of topics. Beyond the newsroom, she is an avid traveller, a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, and a pop culture enthusiast who enjoys watching latest shows and films. She also enjoys engaging in debates and discussions on Reddit.Read More

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