An Illinois woman known as "Tea Tyme" on TikTok has been charged with reckless homicide and aggravated use of a communications device after allegedly striking and killing a pedestrian while livestreaming. Tynesha McCarty-Wroten, 32, faces felony charges from the Zion Police Department following the fatal traffic accident that claimed the life of Darren Lucas.
According to The New York Times, McCarty-Wroten was actively livestreaming on the popular social media platform when the incident occurred. A video, subsequently reshared by other TikTok accounts, reportedly shows McCarty-Wroten speaking into her phone just before a distinct loud thud is heard. An offscreen child then asks, "What was that?" to which the woman replies, "I hit somebody."
Investigators relied on surveillance footage, which reportedly captured McCarty-Wroten's vehicle entering the intersection against a red traffic light. Authorities determined that she did not appear to slow down or alter her course before colliding with Darren Lucas. Lucas was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
McCarty-Wroten's legal counsel has stated to The New York Times that evidence presented will aim to demonstrate that the incident was "an accident, was a negligent act, but was not an intentional or reckless act."
