Long Branch (07740) – Tragic NJ Beach Shooting: Teen TikTok Star Gunned Down – LIVE UPDATES

Long Branch (07740)  – An idyllic summer evening at Pier Village beach, Long Branch, NJ, turned fatal for 18‑year‑old TikTok influencer Chrystofer A. Whyte. Known online as @hi.imchrys with over 100,000 followers, he posted a carefree selfie video just hours before he was shot dead with a single gunshot wound on June 12. Authorities have since arrested two suspects—an unnamed minor and 18‑year‑old Dwayne Exilus—bringing a sudden and devastating end to Whyte’s young life. The tragedy has rocked the community and raised urgent questions about youth safety in public spaces. 

Key Facts

• BREAKING: TikTok star shot dead at Long Branch beach (Monmouth County).

• IMPACT: One teen (18) killed; two suspects arrested.

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “Arrests made in connection to the shooting.” – Prosecutor Santiago.

• ACTION: Report any related videos or witnesses to Long Branch PD.

WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
This shooting underscores growing concerns about escalated violence at youth‑oriented locations. Whyte’s final TikToks—full of positive affirmation—contrast sharply with the violent end he met. It prompts urgent discussion on public safety near digital gathering spots, where teens often cross paths with unknown threats. 

Chrystofer Whyte, a student‑athlete at Woodbridge High known for his energy and optimism, had posted two beach videos earlier in the day, one urging followers to avoid those who “ignore you until they need you.” Just hours later, police found him with a fatal gunshot wound after responding to reports of gunfire near 8:58 PM. He was declared dead at the scene. The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office has charged a juvenile with murder and weapons offenses, while Exilus faces conspiracy and weapons charges. A GoFundMe initiated by a friend had raised more than $16,000 to support funeral costs. The community remains stunned—local leaders and parents now pressing for enhanced patrols and security at youth hotspots. 

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   Long Branch (07740) – Pier Village Beach, near Ocean Blvd & Broadway Boardwalk.

2. Community Connection:
   “It’s heartbreaking—he should’ve been living his best life.”
   – Maria Conti, owner, Seaglass Café

Update Log

• 🆕 July 3 10:52 AM: Two suspects formally charged.

• 🆕 July 1 3:42 PM: Press release confirms arrests and ongoing investigation.

• 🆕 June 12 8:58 PM: Shooting at Pier Village; Whyte pronounced dead.

This heartbreaking loss highlights a new vulnerability in public beach settings frequently used by teens for social media content. Enhanced security measures and community vigilance have become urgent priorities.