A TikTok creator in the United States has been charged with homicide after a pedestrian died in a car crash that allegedly occurred while she was livestreaming on the social media platform. The incident, which has drawn widespread attention, highlights growing concerns over distracted driving and the dangers of using mobile devices behind the wheel.
According to authorities in Zion, Illinois, 43-year-old Tynesha McCarty-Wroten — known online as “Tea Tyme” — was livestreaming on TikTok when her vehicle struck 59-year-old pedestrian Darren Lucas on November 3rd. Police allege the collision happened at an intersection while she was communicating with viewers on her livestream. Lucas, who was walking home from work, was pronounced dead from his injuries after emergency responders arrived at the scene.
Investigators say that surveillance footage and digital evidence tied McCarty-Wroten’s livestream directly to the timing of the crash. Officials allege she ran a red light at the intersection shortly before hitting Lucas, contradicting her initial claim that she had a green light. Police later obtained sufficient evidence to arrest and charge her with reckless homicide and aggravated use of an electronic communication device resulting in death — two felony counts under Illinois law related to negligent behavior and the use of technology while driving.
The case has sparked intense debate online, with many users criticizing the streamer’s decision to broadcast while driving — a practice strictly prohibited by TikTok’s own safety guidelines. Some have also raised alarm over reports that a child was in the vehicle during the livestream and that McCarty-Wroten continued to engage with viewers shortly after the crash. Authorities say these factors will likely figure into prosecutorial decisions.
In recent days, McCarty-Wroten was released from custody after initially being ordered to remain detained, though the charges remain active and court proceedings are ongoing. Prosecutors and law enforcement officials have emphasised that the case serves as a stern reminder of the very real dangers posed by distracted driving and the irresponsible use of social media platforms while operating a vehicle.
The family of Darren Lucas has expressed gratitude that legal action is moving forward, while safety advocates note the tragedy underscores the need for stricter enforcement of distracted driving laws. They argue that livestreaming and other forms of real-time video communication behind the wheel significantly increase the risk of fatal collisions — a lesson painfully illustrated by this case.
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