Influencer and rapper Lil Tay has died “unexpectedly,” according to a statement shared on her social media accounts on Wednesday.
Lil Tay, whose real name was Claire Hope, rose to fame on Instagram in 2018, when she was said to be just nine years old. Her viral fame centered around videos of her rapping, with Lil Tay once referring to herself as “the youngest flexer of the century”.
On Wednesday, her death was announced in a statement shared to her Instagram, where she has more than three million followers.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news of our beloved Claire’s sudden and tragic passing. We have no words to express the unbearable loss and indescribable pain,” the statement reads. “This outcome was entirely unexpected, and has left us all in shock.”
The statement also refers to the alleged death of the influencer’s older brother, and notes that the siblings’ deaths are “still under investigation”.
“Her brother’s passing adds an even more unimaginable depth to our grief,” the statement continues. “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.
“Claire will forever remain in our hearts, her absence leaving an irreplaceable void that will be felt by all who knew and loved her.”
Lil Tay’s time in the spotlight was often marred by controversy, with the young social media star involved in a number of high-profile feuds, including with YouTuber RiceGum and fellow influencer Bhad Bhabie.
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