In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the social media landscape, Gael Castro, known as the brother of popular influencer Markitos Toys, was reportedly murdered on Friday, March 28, 2025, in a restaurant located in Ensenada, Baja California. The violent attack occurred around 6:00 PM at the Villa Marina restaurant in the El Sauzal delegation, where armed assailants entered and opened fire, killing Castro and another individual.
Witnesses reported that the shooting was sudden and chaotic, with patrons in the restaurant scrambling for safety. According to preliminary reports, Castro sustained over 15 gunshot wounds to his stomach and chest, indicating the brutal nature of the attack. Emergency services were alerted shortly after the incident, but by the time they arrived, Castro was already pronounced dead at the scene.
Social media influencer Dayane Chrissel shared what she claimed were images from the scene on her platforms, further amplifying the tragedy. In a live transmission, she appeared visibly shaken, stating that Brianda Sánchez, Castro’s wife, was present at the restaurant during the shooting, reportedly inside a vehicle. However, as of now, authorities have not confirmed the identity of the deceased, and investigations are ongoing.
This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing violence and insecurity in Mexico, particularly involving social media influencers and their alleged ties to organized crime. Markitos Toys, whose real name is Marcos Eduardo Castro Cárdenas, has been under scrutiny for his possible connections with criminal groups, specifically the Sinaloa Cartel. Earlier this year, his parents' home in Culiacán was attacked, raising concerns about the safety of his family.
Markitos Toys, who has garnered a massive following of over 5.1 million on Instagram and millions more on YouTube, has built a persona around luxury and a lavish lifestyle. However, this image has been marred by allegations of his involvement with 'Los Chapitos,' the faction led by the sons of notorious drug lord Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán. In a controversial video, he acknowledged his friendship with Néstor Isidro Pérez, alias 'El Nini,' a former security chief for 'Los Chapitos,' which has led to speculation about the nature of his relationships within the criminal underworld.
The violent murder of Gael Castro is not an isolated event; it highlights a disturbing trend where influencers, particularly those linked to wealth and power, find themselves embroiled in violent confrontations. This incident adds to a growing list of violent acts against public figures in Mexico, raising questions about the implications of celebrity culture intertwined with organized crime.
As authorities continue to investigate, they are examining security footage from the restaurant and gathering evidence to identify the shooters. Reports indicate that the assailants arrived in a burgundy Toyota Corolla, which was found abandoned a short distance from the crime scene. Police have cordoned off the area and are conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the motives behind this heinous crime.
In the midst of this tragedy, the Castro family remains in the spotlight, with many followers and fans expressing their condolences and shock over the news. The incident has sparked discussions on social media about the safety of influencers and the potential dangers they face in their line of work.
Markitos Toys has not yet publicly commented on his brother's death, leaving many fans and followers anxious for updates. The family’s silence speaks volumes, as they navigate this painful loss amidst the scrutiny of the media and public. The violent death of Gael Castro serves as a grim reminder of the precarious nature of fame in a world where social media and organized crime intersect.
As investigations continue, many are left wondering how this tragedy will impact the influencer community in Mexico. The case is emblematic of a larger issue concerning the safety of public figures and the challenges they face in a society where violence is becoming increasingly prevalent.
In the wake of this event, calls for action to address the violence and protect influencers have emerged, highlighting the need for better security measures and support systems for those in the public eye. The community is rallying for justice for Gael Castro, hoping that his death will not be in vain and that it will spark necessary changes to improve safety for all.
