Ariela Mejia-Polanco, 33, known online as Ariela La Langosta, was found dead in her car on the Cross County Parkway in Mount Vernon, New York, on August 18, 2025. Authorities determined she died of multiple gunshot wounds and opened a homicide investigation, saying they believe she was the intended target rather than a random victim.

Mejia-Polanco was a Dominican social media influencer active in the New York City nightlife scene and had been working at a Manhattan lounge in the hours before her death. She was the mother of two children, and her killing prompted an outpouring of grief from friends, family, and followers.

Westchester County police are leading the inquiry with assistance from the NYPD and the FBI, reviewing her movements and communications. No suspects have been publicly identified and no arrests announced. If anyone who knew Ariela or saw her on August 18 has information, please share it with investigators.