Dominican influencer Ariela Mejia-Polanco, widely known as Ariela “La Langosta,” has tragically died at the age of 33 after suffering gunshot wounds, according to police and Yahoo News.

The Westchester County Police Department confirmed that Mejia-Polanco was discovered inside her car on the Cross County Parkway in New York on August 17. The Medical Examiner’s Office ruled her death a homicide caused by gunfire.

Authorities revealed that she was “likely targeted for violence” and emphasized that her killing was not a random act. Detectives from the General Investigations Unit are leading the case with support from state and federal law enforcement. No further details have been released as the investigation continues.

Tributes From 6ix9ine and Community

Mejia-Polanco, who was closely associated with controversial rapper 6ix9ine (Daniel Hernandez), received an emotional tribute from the artist on Instagram.

Calling her a “tremendous woman” and the “queen of New York,” 6ix9ine added:

“NY won’t ever be the same. I loved you.”

The influencer had previously appeared in the rapper’s 2023 music video “Wapae.”

Her workplace, Ikon New York, also mourned her passing in a heartfelt Instagram statement:

“Today we lost our shining star. Your joy, your humility, and the way you treated everyone with so much care always made you stand out. We still can’t believe it… you were our smile, our happiness. We love you and we will miss you forever.”

The Manhattan restaurant announced it would temporarily close to honor her memory.

6ix9ine’s Legal Troubles

The news comes months after 6ix9ine’s release from prison in December for violating the terms of his parole in connection with the Nine Trey Bloods RICO case. His probation was extended by one year, and he remains under electronic monitoring.

Mejia-Polanco’s death adds to the turbulence surrounding the rapper’s circle and has left the New York influencer community in mourning.