Influencer Barbara Borges died in Rio de Janeiro after being caught in the crossfire of a shootout between rival gangs while riding in a taxi on one of the city’s main streets, Marca.com reported. A stray bullet struck her in the head, killing her instantly.
Borges was rushed to Bonsucesso General Hospital, where doctors were unable to save her, according to local reports.
The taxi driver told authorities he heard what sounded like an explosion and urged Borges to duck for safety. However, it was too late — she had already been hit.
The incident has shocked Brazil, as many mourn the young woman’s death amid ongoing gang violence in the city.
Borges, 28, had only recently begun posting on social media. Her last Instagram post, shared with her nearly 20,000 followers, was about caring for the people you love.
