TikTok star Cooper Noriega is confirmed to have died at the age of 19.
Records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner confirm Noriega, who had more than one million followers on TikTok, was found dead in a car park on Thursday (9 June).
The teenager passed away just days after sharing a video on TikTok with the caption: "Who else b thinking they got die young af? [sic]"
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Noriega's cause of death has not yet been released, with the case status listed as 'deferred' and awaiting further investigation.
Last Sunday, Noriega announced to his fans that he had started a Discord server where he and his followers could be open about their mental health, encouraging people to join if they were 'really into getting your emotions out'.
“I created [the server] because of how much I love you guys and how much I struggle with it myself," Noriega said. "I want you guys to not be alone and [to] feel safe."
Later the same day, Noriega shared a post on Instagram in which he detailed struggling with addiction since he was nine years old, writing: "You may think that’s crazy but that’s the life I’ve been dealt.”
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“I would like to use the influence I’ve been given to create a space built on spreading awareness and normalizing talking about mental illness... For that reason, Discord is meant to bring us all together and create a safe space where people can vent and help others through their tough times,” he continued.
The TikTok star's fans have been paying tribute to him following the news of his passing, with one person writing: "I can't believe this. Rip Coop. you were so loved."
Another commented: "may you rest in paradise cooper. we love and miss you already."
The Twitter account for the Barstool Sports BFFs Podcast also shared a post relating to the news on Twitter, writing: "RIP Cooper Noriega. Life is fragile. Enjoy every minute.”
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As well as gaining fans on TikTok, Noriega also worked as a model.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677
Emily Brown