Police have launched an investigation into the death of a 27-year-old TikTok personality, after her followers alleged she was driven to suicide by relentless online bullying during a livestream.
Investigation Launched After Allegations of Online Harassment
TikToker Riziki Ilenre died on 12 December 2025. Her online community quickly raised concerns, suggesting she had taken her own life while broadcasting and had been a long-term victim of vicious cyberbullying and hate related to her disability and mental health struggles.
When approached for comment by TMZ, the Montgomery Police Department declined to discuss the specific circumstances surrounding Ilenre's death, confirming only that a probe was underway.
On her now-deleted TikTok account, Ilenre was known for openly discussing her personal battles with mental health and her disability, creating a space that was both vulnerable and, according to supporters, a target for abuse.
Petition Calls for 'Riziki Ilenre Act' to Combat Cyberbullying
In response to the tragedy, fans have initiated a powerful campaign for legislative change. A petition on Change.org demands that lawmakers pass the Riziki Ilenre Act, calling for significantly harsher punishments for online abuse and more robust systems for victims to report harassment.
The petition creator states that Ilenre "endured relentless harassment from various creators on TikTok." They allege, "They mocked her, they made fun of her disabilities, and in the deepest cruelty, they told her to kill herself."
The text concludes that this "relentless bullying and cyber attacks" led to a devastating loss, highlighting the urgent need for legal reform to protect individuals from online harassment.
Tributes Pour In for a 'Brilliant and Fearless' Young Woman
As the investigation continues, heartfelt tributes have flooded social media, painting a picture of Ilenre far beyond her online persona. A spokesperson for the Church Without Walls - Carrollton remembered her as a "bright and brilliant young woman" who was preparing to begin law school.
"This is not a moment for speculation or easy answers," the church's statement read. "This is a moment for grieving, compassion, and love."
Walter D’Andre Green, a pastor at Ilenre's local church, shared a deeply personal tribute on Facebook, calling her his "daughter - not biologically but absolutely spiritually." He wrote of watching her evolve from a college sophomore into a driven young woman poised to study law.
"She was brilliant, driven, and fearless in thought," Green added. "One thing about Rizi — she loved to debate... She loved truth, and she wasn’t afraid to wrestle with it." He confirmed she had worked as a social media director, photographer, and ministry intern.
Ilenre is survived by her service dog, Chief, who frequently appeared in her online posts. She once described Chief as "goofy yet incredible," noting he would "gently remind me to remain present with a reassuring paw on my shoe."
The Independent has contacted both the Montgomery Police Department and TikTok for further comment.
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website.
