A popularInstagram modeland influencer was found dead in her Houston-area apartment, and authorities believe her death was the result of a murder-suicide.
The man suspected of killing her, Kevin Alexander Accorto, 34, of Florida, was also found dead at the scene. He died from “multiple sharp force trauma,” according to the medical examiner, who ruled his death a suicide.
Police tellABC-13that there was no sign of forced entry, but that Gagnier did not appear to know her attacker.
“At this point in the investigation, it is not believed that there was a relationship between the suspect and the victim,” Richmond police spokesman Lt. Lowell Neinast toldThe New York Postin a statement. Family memberstold KHOUthat they believe that Accorto stalked Gagnier before killing her.
RICHMOND POLICE DEPARTMENT
Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up forPEOPLE’s free True Crime newsletterfor breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.
Gagnier, 33, had developed a strong media following across multiple platforms, with more than 2.6 million followers on Instagram alone.
As news of her death has spread, fans and followers have expressed their shock and sadness on her Instagram posts.
“Stop playing we just spoke on thurs,“rapperBow Wowcommented on her most recent picture. “Don’t do me like this yo! Naaa.”
“Please tell me this is not real,” wrote rapperBrittany Bangaz. “Mercedes I’m so sorry. You did not deserve this at all. You had your whole life ahead of you. I remember all our times we had and you have always been the sweetest woman in the world. God bless you and your family. I’m sorry Mercedes rest in heaven.”
source: people.com
