Photo: Ariiela La Langosta/From her Instagram account
By ESENDOM
August 19, 2025
Lea en español: Consternación en Nueva York: Ariiela «La Langosta», influencer dominicana, hallada muerta dentro de su auto
Social Media Influencer Ariiela "La Langosta" was found dead in a car in Mount Vernon, New York.
The victim had gunshot wounds; authorities have confirmed that someone is in custody.
With a following of more than half a million on Instagram, Ariiela was a recognized figure in New York's nightlife scene and participated in music productions, including a clip with Tekashi 6ix9ine.
Nightlife establishments and entertainment personalities have expressed their grief, remembering her vibrant personality and joyful spirit.
New York — The Dominican-American community woke up to tragic news after the death of Ariela Mejía-Polanco, widely known as Ariiela "La Langosta,” was confirmed. The content creator and nightlife entertainment figure was found dead inside a black Mercedes-Benz G-Class, parked near Cross County Parkway in Mount Vernon, during the early hours of Sunday, August 17th.
According to officials, the 33-year-old victim had suffered multiple gunshot wounds, and the vehicle showed evidence of violence. Ariela was found in the passenger seat, which immediately raised suspicions of a targeted attack. Westchester police have confirmed the arrest of Nata Cartier, identified as the victim's romantic partner, although his specific involvement in the incident has not been detailed.
Speculation circulated on social media that included theories about a possible assassination attempt and reports of a male individual who allegedly left the scene unharmed. These claims remain officially unverified, while authorities continue gathering witness testimony and investigating the case.
A Figure Beloved by the Community
Ariiela "La Langosta" had gained considerable recognition since 2018 through her Instagram presence, where she accumulated more than 500,000 followers. Her posts about fashion, dance, and lifestyle established her as one of the most influential Dominican personalities in New York's digital landscape.
Beyond her social media career, she worked at recognized establishments including Mermaids Gentlemen's Club and Taboga Room, and participated in artistic productions, notably her appearance in a music video by rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine, who referred to her as "the queen of New York" and mourned her loss on social media, describing her as a close friend and "sister."
Prominent nightlife venues such as Opus Lounge and Ikon New York also expressed their sorrow over her departure. "Tonight the nightlife scene loses an angel," posted one of the establishments, while another temporarily closed its doors as a show of respect.
Impact on the Dominican Diaspora
Ariela's death has deeply impacted both New York's Latino community and the Dominican diaspora in general, who saw in her a representation of the determination shown by countless young people who have achieved success navigating a challenging and competitive environment.
The investigation is ongoing. Meanwhile, family members, friends, and followers continue paying tribute to her memory, remembering her as a joyful and humble woman who could brighten any space she occupied.