The cause of death for influencer Ariela La Langosta has been revealed.
The Westchester County Police Department confirmed that a woman named Ariela Mejia-Polanco was found dead behind the wheel of her car at 8 a.m. on Sunday, August 17.
“The woman found deceased in her car on the Cross County Parkway on Sunday died as a result of gunshot wounds, the Westchester County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed today,” a Monday, August 18, Facebook post read.
Authorities noted that a preliminary investigation concluded that she was “likely targeted for violence,” adding that “her death was not a random act.”
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“The homicide remains under investigation by detectives from the General Investigations Unit,” the statement read. “Assistance has been provided by other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies … in the continuing investigation. Due to that ongoing investigation, additional details are not being disclosed at this time.”
After news broke of Ariela’s death, rapper 6ix9ine paid tribute to the influencer. (Ariela starred in 6ix9ine’s 2023 “Wapae” music video.)
“You supported me in everything. My sister,” 6ix9ine said in an Instagram Story on Sunday, translated from Spanish, per E! News. He added that Ariela was a “tremendous woman” and the “queen of New York.”
Ariela’s workplace, Ikon New York, also honored her, sharing a photo of the influencer smiling for the camera.
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“Today we lost our shining star @ariiela.lalangosta 
,” the Instagram post shared on Monday read. “Our hearts are broken. Your joy, your humility, and the way you treated everyone with so much care always made you stand out. Thank you for giving so much love and support to our home, which also became yours.”
The statement continued, “To Ariela’s family, we are here for anything you need. We still can’t believe it… you were our smile, our happiness. We love you and we will miss you forever. 
.”
In another Instagram post, Ikon New York shared that the establishment would be closed until Tuesday, August 19, “out of respect for one of our beloved team members who recently passed away.” (The restaurant was scheduled to begin new hours, opening on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.)
“She was a brilliant, humble soul with incredible energy — the kind of person who could light up any room she entered. She will be deeply missed by all of us,” the statement read. “Please take a moment to cherish and love your own loved ones. Life is precious.”
