Influencer Ariela Mejia-Polanco Found Dead Targeted Violence Westchester

Ariela Mejia-Polanco, known as Ariela “La Langosta,” a 33-year-old Dominican influencer with over 556,000 Instagram followers, was found dead inside her car on the Cross County Parkway in Mount Vernon, New York. Authorities confirmed she died from multiple gunshot wounds and believe she was specifically targeted, ruling out a random act of violence. Mejia-Polanco was a close friend of rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine, appearing in his 2023 music video "Wapae," and he publicly mourned her loss, describing her as "like a sister" and the "Queen of New York." Her workplace, IKON New York restaurant, also paid tribute, highlighting her joyful and caring nature and announcing a temporary closure out of respect. The Westchester County Police General Investigations Unit, along with local, state, and federal partners, continue to investigate the case. No further details have been released due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.