US Influencer Sara Gilson Shot Dead by Estranged Husband After Accusing Him of Being a Pedophile

US social media influencer Sara Gilson, 43, was shot dead at her Oklahoma home, allegedly by her estranged husband, Jeremiah "Shawn" Duffey, less than two weeks after she posted a viral TikTok accusing him of being a pedophile. Authorities believe Duffey later died by suicide.

According to NBC News, Gilson had obtained an emergency protective order against Duffey in June after police informed her he had been accused of molesting a minor. On July 11, she shared a TikTok video referencing a Netflix documentary trend, writing that she had "just found out" her soon-to-be ex-husband was a pedophile. The post came weeks before the fatal shooting.

911 call captured screams before gunshot Police said officers responded late Thursday night after a 911 caller reported hearing a woman screaming, followed by what sounded like a gunshot. Dispatchers were unable to reconnect with the caller. Moments later, Gilson's stepson ran to a neighbour's home and called 911, telling authorities his stepfather had shot his mother. When officers arrived at the residence, they found Gilson and Duffey dead with apparent gunshot wounds to the head. Investigators said the case appears to be a murder-suicide.

Molestation allegations under federal review The allegations against Duffey stem from a June 9 incident involving a 15-year-old girl on a travelling basketball team he coached. Police said another coach intervened after witnessing inappropriate contact and reported it to the girl's parent. Investigators also said similar alleged conduct had occurred over an extended period across multiple states. Because the alleged offence occurred on tribal land and Duffey is a member of the Osage Nation, the case was referred to the US Attorney's Office for possible federal prosecution. Court records also show Gilson sought another emergency protective order in July, alleging Duffey possessed a gun, had threatened suicide and had gone into hiding. He had been ordered to stay at least 100 yards away from her and leave their home.

Children survive tragedy Authorities said Gilson's son, who was inside the home, was taken into protective custody before being released to a parent not involved in the incident. Gilson is survived by a son and a daughter. An online fundraiser described her as "an incredible mom" whose children were the centre of her world and said she worked tirelessly to provide them with the best possible life. (This is a top Google Trends topic.)