Manuel Lazaro: Prime Suspect in TikTok Star Keyla Gonzalez’s Livestream Murder

The final moments of 21-year-old TikTok influencer Keyla Andreina Gonzalez Mercado’s life were broadcast to horrified viewers worldwide. On July 26, 2025, from her home in Guayaquil, Ecuador, Keyla’s livestream abruptly ended with the sound of gunshots after she was shot twice in the head. Ecuadorian authorities have named Manuel Lazaro—identified as Manuel Andrés Álava Lázaro—as the prime suspect in her shocking murder, sending shockwaves across Latin America and global social media communities. Keyla’s own haunting words moments before her death, captured on the livestream, echo the tragedy: “If you’re going to kill me, make sure I’m good and dead.”

Manuel Lazaro: The Suspect Behind the Livestream Tragedy

Police reports confirm Manuel Lazaro fled the scene on a motorbike immediately after the shooting and remains at large. He was reportedly dating Keyla’s close friend, who was present during the fatal gathering at Keyla’s home. According to witness accounts cited by Ecuador’s Prosecutor’s Office, the group had been drinking before tensions escalated. During the TikTok live session, Keyla engaged in a chilling verbal exchange with Lazaro. Footage reviewed by investigators shows her jokingly taunting him in Spanish: “Shoot me twice, I beg you… You’ll hit me in the head twice, you’ll kill me in one go, I don’t want to suffer.” As her friend pleaded “No, no!” in the background, Lazaro allegedly fired the fatal shots. Viewers heard Keyla scream “Manuel Lázaro!” seconds before the broadcast cut out.

The Fatal Livestream: A Moment of Horror

Social media posts from outlets like PERIÓDICO SupreMo (July 29, 2025) and AL OJO EC (July 28, 2025) disseminated fragments of the incident, showing Keyla mid-stream before the attack. The graphic nature of the crime—streamed live to an unsuspecting audience—has intensified public outrage and scrutiny of social media platform responsibilities. Keyla’s family, in statements to local media, confirmed they recognized Lazaro by sight but had no prior personal relationship with him. They described him as a tattooed individual linked to violent circles, though his formal profession remains unverified.

Investigation, Charges, and Manhunt

Ecuadorian prosecutors have filed murder charges against Manuel Lazaro, asserting the killing was intentional and potentially premeditated. The National Police emphasize the gravity of the case, linking it to Ecuador’s broader struggle with gun violence. Interior Ministry data from 2024 shows firearm-related homicides in Guayaquil surged by 18% year-over-year, adding context to the tragedy. Investigators are pursuing leads across Guayaquil and neighboring regions, urging citizens to report any sightings of Lazaro, believed to be in his late 20s or early 30s. Security camera footage from the area is being analyzed to trace his escape route.

Who Is Manuel Lazaro?

Limited verified information exists about Manuel Andrés Álava Lázaro. Authorities describe him as a resident of Guayaquil or its outskirts with alleged ties to local gangs, based on tattoo symbolism noted in police bulletins. His social media presence appears minimal, complicating tracking efforts. Those familiar with him, cited in reports by outlets like PERIÓDICO SupreMo, portray him as volatile, especially when intoxicated. Keyla’s friend—Lazaro’s girlfriend—is cooperating with police but has not spoken publicly. Her testimony is considered crucial to understanding the dynamics that led to the shooting.

The murder of Keyla Gonzalez during a TikTok livestream underscores the devastating intersection of unchecked violence and digital exposure. As Manuel Lazaro evades capture, global attention remains fixed on Guayaquil, demanding justice for a life brutally ended in real time. Share verified tips with Ecuadorian authorities via [phone]—every lead could bring closure to Keyla’s grieving family.

Must Know

Who is Manuel Lazaro?
Manuel Andrés Álava Lázaro is the prime suspect in the murder of TikToker Keyla Gonzalez. He is a Guayaquil resident in his late 20s/early 30s, linked to violent groups via tattoos. He fled the crime scene on a motorcycle and remains at large as of August 2025.

How did Keyla Gonzalez die?
Keyla was shot twice in the head during a TikTok livestream on July 26, 2025, in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Viewers witnessed her final moments after she jokingly dared Manuel Lazaro to shoot her. The broadcast ended abruptly after gunfire.

What charges does Manuel Lazaro face?
Ecuador’s Prosecutor’s Office has charged Lazaro with intentional homicide. Police assert the shooting was premeditated, citing Keyla’s livestream audio and witness statements. If convicted, he faces 22–26 years under Ecuadorian law.

Was Keyla Gonzalez targeted?
Evidence suggests the shooting followed a heated exchange during a social gathering. Keyla’s taunts about being shot, captured on livestream, preceded the attack. Authorities are investigating whether Lazaro’s actions were impulsive or planned.

How can the public help?
Ecuador’s National Police urge anyone with information on Manuel Lazaro’s whereabouts to contact [phone] anonymously. Security footage from Guayaquil’s 28th and Capitán Nájera streets area is also sought.