by Zion, Illinois — A fatal pedestrian crash in a quiet Chicago suburb has taken a disturbing turn after police said a TikTok livestream helped investigators identify and arrest a popular social media creator accused of hitting and killing a man while driving.
Tynesha McCarty-Wroten, known online as “Tea Tyme,” was arrested on December 23 and charged with reckless homicide and aggravated use of an electronic communication device, according to authorities. Investigators say the crash occurred while she was allegedly livestreaming herself driving.
Pedestrian Killed While Walking Home From Work
The victim, 59-year-old Darren Lucas, had just finished his shift at a grocery store on November 3 and was walking home to nearby Beach Park when he was struck at an intersection in Zion.
According to a press release from the Zion Police Department, officers and the Zion Fire Department responded to the scene around 5:46 p.m., finding Lucas seriously injured. He was transported to Vista Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
Public Tips Point Investigators to TikTok Livestream
Police said the case took a critical turn after numerous members of the public contacted investigators, claiming a TikTok video showed McCarty-Wroten livestreaming at the time of the crash.
Authorities confirmed they were able to verify the video, and after McCarty-Wroten’s attorney later surrendered her phone, forensic analysis confirmed the footage was recorded at the exact date and time of the collision.
The charges were authorized by the Lake County State Attorney’s Office, which issued an arrest warrant Tuesday.
Video Allegedly Captured Moment of Impact
According to reporting by The Guardian, the video circulating online was a screen recording of a TikTok livestream from an account using the handle “Tea_Tyme_3.”
The footage allegedly showed the driver speaking into her phone moments before a loud thump was heard.
“F—, f—, f— … I just hit somebody,” the driver reportedly said, as someone else in the vehicle asked what had happened.
Investigators said the account was later made private, and profile details indicating the user was from Zion were removed.
Arrest Made After Warrant Issued
Police said McCarty-Wroten was arrested almost immediately after the warrant was issued. According to the department, officers observed her attempting to leave her residence with several packed bags at the time of the arrest.
Authorities have not said whether she made any statements following her arrest. Court records detailing a potential bond or court appearance timeline were not immediately released.
Charges Highlight Dangers of Distracted Driving
The charge of aggravated use of an electronic communication device reflects growing concern among law enforcement over distracted driving, particularly when social media livestreaming is involved.
Illinois law treats the use of electronic devices while driving seriously, especially when it results in severe injury or death. Prosecutors say livestreaming while operating a vehicle can demonstrate reckless disregard for public safety, elevating potential criminal liability.
Victim Remembered as Hardworking Resident
Police said Lucas was simply walking home from work when he was struck, underscoring the randomness and tragedy of the incident. No additional details about his family were released, but authorities confirmed he lived in the nearby community of Beach Park.
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The case has drawn widespread attention online, sparking renewed debate about social media responsibility, distracted driving, and the role of livestreaming behind the wheel.
Investigation Continues
The Zion Police Department said the investigation remains active as the case moves into the court system. Prosecutors have not ruled out additional evidence or charges.
Law enforcement officials are also urging drivers to remember that phones and livestreams can wait, warning that even a moment of distraction can lead to irreversible consequences.
What responsibility do social media platforms and creators have when livestreaming intersects with public safety? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
