Friends, fans, and local communities are mourning the tragic death of Keeley Thornton, known as “Sheffield Keeley” on TikTok, whose life ended in a heartbreaking way after being allegedly exploited for online fame.

Keeley, a 34-year-old from Sheffield, was found unconscious in the city center on January 14, 2025.

Despite the best efforts of a passerby who performed CPR and emergency responders who rushed her to the hospital, she was later pronounced dead.

The authorities are treating her death as unexplained and have arrested a woman on suspicion of administering a harmful substance.

However, the arrested woman has been released on bail, and the investigation continues.

Keeley’s Fame and the Dark Side of Social Media Exploitation

Keeley had gained a large following on TikTok, known for her fun, often carefree singing and dancing videos.

However, according to organizations like The Archer Project, which supports the homeless, Keeley was exploited for her online presence.

The organization revealed that she was lured into performing for likes by people who gave her money and alcohol in exchange for videos.

In their statement, The Archer Project described how Keeley was used for social media entertainment—encouraged to drink and perform, often when intoxicated, which played into her addiction.

The group emphasized that this was not casual filming; Keeley was specifically sought out and exploited for her vulnerability.

The Tragic Reality of Keeley’s Exploitation

In a moving post, The Archer Project shared the grim truth about how Keeley was manipulated for content.

The spokesperson explained how Keeley’s alcoholism became a source of entertainment for others, and how she was often filmed in dangerous and vulnerable situations.

According to the organization, Keeley was “physically at risk, emotionally lost,” and unable to assess her own safety.

They stressed that she was not just a viral sensation but a human being, a daughter, and a person who deserved respect.

The message called for a reflection on how social media’s voyeuristic tendencies contributed to her exploitation and deteriorating health.

Tributes and Condolences Pour In

Following Keeley’s tragic death, tributes have flooded in on social media platforms, with many sharing fond memories of her and expressing their sorrow.

Among those paying their respects was Tom Blewitt, who shared a heartfelt message, saying, “RIP Keeley Thornton, You didn’t have the best of situations in life but you lived it to the full girl.”

Others, like Kieran Simpson, expressed sympathy for her family, with one post saying, “You rest easy now, you’re away from all the idiots.”

In tribute, some reposted videos of Keeley performing, adorned with messages like “RIP” and “fly high.”

GoFundMe Campaign Set Up to Support Keeley’s Family

In the wake of Keeley’s passing, a GoFundMe page has been launched to support her family during this difficult time. So far, the campaign has raised £2,255.

The organizer, Cherie Lowe, described Keeley as someone with a “beautiful heart” and asked for help in honoring her memory.

The page notes that Keeley, known affectionately as “cotton wool” by some, is now at peace, and the funds will assist her grieving family.

Ongoing Investigation and Appeal for Information

The investigation into Keeley’s death continues, with police urging anyone with information to come forward.

Authorities are particularly seeking any details related to the suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police via 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously.

Keeley’s tragic end has sparked widespread grief and calls for deeper reflection on how vulnerable individuals can be exploited online.

Her story serves as a reminder of the dangers that can come with the pursuit of social media fame and the responsibilities that come with it.b

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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