Black Trans TikTok Star Girlalala Shot & Killed by Boyfriend, Rapper JT Speaks Out Against Domestic Violence

TikTok creator Girlalala, born Maurice Harrison, was shot and killed Nov. 14 in Lauderdale Lakes, in what authorities say was a domestic dispute that turned violent, prompting renewed concern from advocates about the rising rates of intimate-partner violence against Black transgender women.

Harrison, 21, was found with multiple gunshot wounds inside a vehicle and later died at a nearby hospital, according to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies arrested her boyfriend, Shanoyd Whyte Jr., 25, at the scene and charged him with first-degree murder with a firearm. Whyte is being held without bond, according to jail records. Detectives said the pair had been in a years-long relationship and had argued inside Whyte’s vehicle shortly before the shooting.

Investigators recovered a firearm at the scene. The sheriff’s office said the case remains active and that additional evidence, including surveillance footage circulating online, is being reviewed.

According to the arrest warrant, Whyte himself called 911 after the shooting, repeatedly telling dispatchers, “I need help,” and flagging down deputies when they arrived. Deputies said blood was visible on the passenger seat and pooled on the floorboard, with droplets found on the pavement outside the open door.

Harrison, who identified as a woman, gained prominence on TikTok as a wig and hair influencer with nearly 300,000 followers. Videos of Harrison styling hair, reviewing products and sharing day-to-day experiences attracted a large and dedicated audience. Many of her followers have posted tributes since news of her death broke, describing her as creative, charismatic and supportive of other up-and-coming creators.

Supporters have also highlighted the dangers facing Black transgender women nationwide. Advocates say violence against transgender women, particularly Black trans women, remains a significant concern. According to the Human Rights Campaign, more than half of transgender homicide victims tracked annually are Black trans women, many of whom are killed by intimate partners. Advocacy organizations say Harrison’s case reflects that trend and underscores how domestic violence can escalate quickly for transgender victims who may not have access to robust support systems.

A GoFundMe created to support Harrison’s funeral costs has raised nearly $30,000. Among the donors is City Girls rapper JT, who contributed $13,500 and called for greater awareness of domestic violence affecting LGBTQ+ people.

“Nothing is funny about a domestic violence story,” JT wrote in a since-expired Instagram Story. She added that violence within LGBTQ+ communities is often minimized and that such incidents should not be used as entertainment. “If you see something, say something,” she wrote.

Community members who followed Harrison online said they had seen earlier signs of tension between Harrison and Whyte in videos posted by the couple. Broward County investigators have not confirmed whether these videos are part of the evidence being reviewed.

Social media users have circulated clips they say depict Whyte exiting the vehicle on the night of the shooting. Authorities have not commented on the footage but encouraged anyone with additional video or information to contact the sheriff’s office.

However, an arrest affidavit describes surveillance footage showing Whyte’s vehicle pulling into a residential driveway moments before the shooting. According to deputies, the video appears to show Whyte retrieving a gun from his waistband and firing into the passenger seat, with a visible muzzle flash.

The footage also reportedly shows Whyte walking around the vehicle with the firearm in hand and pulling Harrison upright by her hair after she slumped over. Deputies recovered two 9mm shell casings and a holstered handgun inside the car.

Harrison’s death has reignited conversations about what advocates describe as a lack of comprehensive protections for Black trans women experiencing domestic violence. Organizations working on LGBTQ+ safety say barriers include limited access to affirming shelters, fear of discrimination when reporting abuse and the risk of public harassment. Advocates also say the visibility that comes with online influence can increase vulnerability.

Local LGBTQ+ organizers in South Florida have called Harrison’s killing a loss felt across multiple communities, including Black trans women, online creatives and young LGBTQ+ audiences who saw Harrison as a relatable figure. Some organizers said they hope the case will prompt renewed investment in safety resources for transgender people, particularly those experiencing intimate-partner conflict.

Friends and followers continue to post videos, photos and messages in memory of Harrison. Many say they are sharing her content to honor her online legacy and to ensure her work remains visible.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the case to contact Broward County Crime Stoppers. The sheriff’s office said updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

Harrison’s supporters, influencers and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have stated that her death reflects ongoing concerns about violence against Black trans women and the need for stronger protections, better reporting systems and increased community intervention.

Her online community continues to mourn a creator whose presence shaped a corner of the platform and whose death has renewed urgent conversations about safety, accountability and support for transgender people facing intimate-partner violence.

TMZ also released audio of the 911 call, in which a man identified as Whyte can be heard yelling, “I need help! Please, I need help!” while urging dispatchers to send emergency responders immediately. Deputies later confirmed Whyte made the call.

Neighbors interviewed by investigators reported hearing two gunshots before deputies arrived, according to the warrant.

Officials said the firearm, shell casings, and surveillance footage have been entered into evidence as the investigation continues.