Chrystofer Whyte, an 18-year-old popular TikTok star, tragically lost his life on June 12, 2025, just hours after posting a selfie video at a beach in Long Branch, New Jersey. Whyte, who had over 90,000 followers on TikTok, was shot and killed by Dwayne Exilus, 18, and a minor whose name has not been released due to their age.
The Tragic Incident
Whyte was filming a TikTok video between the shoreline and the boardwalk of Pier Village when the suspects allegedly opened fire on him just before 9 p.m. The incident occurred shortly after an outdoor music concert had wrapped up in the area, causing many concertgoers to be caught in the crossfire.
According to the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Exilus and the juvenile suspect approached Whyte, with the juvenile allegedly shooting Whyte multiple times while Exilus missed. Whyte’s friends and local sources have pointed to possible tensions and a growing feud stemming from TikTok Live interactions, where some users reportedly antagonized Whyte and insulted him during broadcasts. However, authorities have not yet provided details on the exact motive behind the shooting or the events that unfolded just before the gunfire erupted.
The Feud and Social Media Influence
Whyte’s friend, Jaiden Roche, who spoke to police and media outlets, believes the violence was fueled by egos and an escalating online feud. Roche stated that the suspects, having seen Whyte’s TikTok post earlier in the day, arrived at the beach intending to start problems with him. Roche claims that Whyte had tried to resolve the issue by suggesting a fight, but the suspects seemingly had deadlier intentions.
“He had told these kids, let’s fight. I guess these kids had something more than a fight in mind,” Roche said. Whyte, known for his athleticism in football and wrestling at Woodbridge High School, was described by friends as someone who enjoyed making TikTok videos full-time and was making a good living from his social media presence.
Whyte’s Legacy and Death
Whyte’s death shocked his community, where he was not just a TikTok influencer, but a well-liked figure in his local area. Friends and family expressed their sorrow, with Roche remembering Whyte as someone who was simply trying to have a good day with his friends at the beach. Tragically, that day ended in violence.
Charges Against the Suspects
Dwayne Exilus and the juvenile have been charged with several serious crimes related to Whyte’s death. The juvenile has been charged with murder, conspiracy to commit unlawful possession of a weapon, and other charges. Exilus faces conspiracy and unlawful possession of a weapon charges, along with hindering charges. These charges were announced on Monday by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office.
The tragic shooting of Chrystofer Whyte highlights the dangers that can stem from online interactions and escalating conflicts, especially among young people. While Whyte’s friends and family continue to mourn his loss, the community is left grappling with the senseless violence that took a promising young life too soon. The investigation into the incident continues, and justice for Whyte’s family and loved ones remains a key priority for law enforcement.
