Tom Wood
A popular TikTok star has died at the age of just 18, her family has confirmed.
Kara Santorelli – who had thousands of followers on the social video platform – died in a car crash in her native Florida.
The high-school student became popular on TikTok for her videos, some of which were about her life, but mostly in which she lip-synced to popular songs.
She was killed on March 17 when she was involved in a head-on car crash.
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The Florida Highway Patrol stated that Santorelli was driving along Highway 29 in Escambia County when her car – a Nissan SUV – collided with a Chevrolet sedan car that was on the wrong side of the road.
She is believed to have died at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle died after becoming trapped in their car.
Just days before, Santorelli had shared a video from inside her car in which she spoke about her safety record as a driver – though there is no indication that she was driving in an unsafe fashion.
That video has since been deleted.
Remembering her niece on Facebook, Kara’s aunt wrote: “A little piece of my heart died today when I found out my niece went to heaven.
“I love your beautiful soul Kara!”
Her mother also shared a post online which read: “I love you Kara. God blessed me with you.”
Northview High School, the school which Kara attended and where she was completing her final year, also offered a tribute to their late student.
They said: “We hold tight to beautiful memories that she had left with us.
“Her beautiful smile and kind spirit will continue to be in the hearts of her friends and classmates.”
Another tribute came from the restaurant where Kara had been employed, who described the teenager as a ‘very special person’.
They wrote: “If you didn’t know Kara you missed out on knowing a very special person and it’s a void in our hearts.
“We will always remember you and know that you can put a smile on everyone’s face even through the rough times!”
A memorial was held for Kara at Pensacola Beach after news of her death emerged.
Fans have been flooding her TikTok account with their own sympathies as well, with one writing: “Rest in peace, Kara.
“My heart goes out to everyone you loved and everyone that cares for you.”
Another said: “Such a beautiful person and amazing family.
“So many prayers for your family and all those who loved you.”