After gaining internet fame in the mid-2010s while still in the single-digit age range, Lil Tay, whose legal name was Claire Hope, has passed away. Wednesday morning (Aug. 9), the family of the viral, hip-hop adjacent star made the announcement through her verified Instagram page.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the devastating news of our beloved Claire’s sudden and tragic passing,” the statement reads. “We have no words to express the unbearable loss and indescribable pain. This outcome was entirely unexpected, and has left us all in shock.”Hope, who was reported to be 14 years old at the time of her death, passed away just after the death of her brother Jason Tian, according to the statement. Both of their deaths are unknown at this time and are under investigation.“Her brother’s passing adds an even more unimaginable depth to our grief,” the family statement continues. “During this time of immense sorrow, we kindly ask for privacy as we grieve this overwhelming loss, as the circumstances surrounding Claire and her brother’s passing are still under investigation. Claire will forever remain in our hearts, her absence leaving an irreplaceable void that will be felt by all who knew and loved her.”
