A 17-year-old Taiwanese TikTok creator known online as “Xiao Yu” has tragically died following a road accident while travelling to school, leaving thousands of fans heartbroken.
The teenager, surnamed Zhang, had gained popularity on TikTok for his cheerful personality, youthful appearance and videos featuring local food recommendations. He had accumulated more than 11,000 followers and over 330,000 likes on the platform, with many fans nicknaming him “Changhua’s Hsu Kuang-Han” due to his resemblance to the actor.
Family members held his funeral service yesterday, where relatives, classmates, teachers and supporters gathered to pay their final respects in an emotional farewell ceremony.
Just one day before the fatal accident, Zhang had uploaded a TikTok video sharing childhood footage of himself dancing happily while writing about his dream of becoming an influencer. Fans later described the post as heartbreaking after learning it became one of his final messages online.
According to reports, the tragedy occurred early on May 8 while the teenager was riding a small electric two-wheeler to school along Section 4 of Luhe Road.
Police said Zhang allegedly lost control of the vehicle while attempting to avoid a motorcycle carrying an elderly couple who were making a U-turn. His electric vehicle reportedly crashed into a roadside utility pole, causing severe injuries that later proved fatal.
Following news of his death, more than 5,000 comments flooded his final TikTok post, with fans expressing disbelief and sorrow over the sudden loss.
Messages left by followers included emotional tributes such as “I can’t believe this is real” and “Rest in peace, see you in the next life.”
At the funeral, floral tributes from friends, classmates and supporters filled the memorial hall as mourners gathered to honour the teenager who had brought joy to many through his online videos.
The incident has also reignited concerns over road safety involving micro electric vehicles, which have become increasingly popular among students and migrant workers in Taiwan due to their lower costs and accessibility.
Police urged riders to always wear helmets, obey traffic regulations and practise defensive riding techniques, warning that such vehicles offer limited protection during accidents.
