The Heartbreaking Death Of TikTok Star Caitlyn Loane
TikTok star Caitlyn Loane, who rose to fame after documenting her everyday life working on her family's cattle farm in Tasmania, Australia, has died by suicide. She was 19. A fourth-generation farmer, Loane's videos had a huge impact on her fans and made waves for raising awareness on women in farming (via New York Post). Her snapshots of her experience as a livestock manager inspired many to learn more about the agriculture industry.
Loane's family shared a statement mourning her death. "Words can't describe our loss," it read (via Daily Mail). Her father, Phillip Loane, reflected on his daughter's life and told the Mercury that "she was a lovely, crazy young woman who was an invaluable member of our family."
Her mother, Richele Loane, also shared that Loane inspired young women everywhere with her can-do attitude and upbeat personality (via Daily Mail). "Her smile lit up the room," she added. "She wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty — in some photos she has mud up to her knees."
Loane's final TikTok video was posted on June 26, 2021. Fans took over the comments section and offered their condolences. Her friends also reacted to the news.
If you or anyone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Condolences pour in as friends and classmates mourn Caitlyn Loane's death
In addition to her love of farming, Caitlyn Loane also loved football and played for the Devonport Football Club. The football club shared a heartfelt statement about her death on Facebook: "The Board, the members, players, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters of the Devonport Football Club convey our sincere condolences and warmest thoughts to Caitlyn's family and friends, which, of course, includes her teammates in the DFC Senior Women's team. The past week has put into context what really matters in life, and has reminded us all that football, as unifying as it is, is just a game after all. The priority of the Devonport Football Club at present is to provide an empathetic, supportive network to all associated with the club, with particular focus on those most affected by the tragic passing of Caitlyn" (via Women's Health).
The sports organization also honored her memory by observing a moment of silence before their Men's senior game (via Facebook). Loane's friends also took to Facebook to pay their respects. One friend posted: "I will never ever forget the fond moments and memories we have together ... All the late-night chats, late night drives, the cattle handling shows together" (via E!).
Another friend wrote that she had a "bubbly personality and a heart of gold" (via Women's Health).