TikTok influencer Gabriela “Gabbie” Gonzalez was arrested in Northern California this week after prosecutors accused her, her father, and a third suspect of participating in an alleged murder-for-hire plot targeting singer Jack Avery, the former member of the boy band Why Don’t We. Authorities say Gonzalez was taken into custody in Humboldt County before being transferred to Los Angeles County, where she is currently being held without bail. Prosecutors have charged Gonzalez, her father Francisco Gonzalez, and Hawaii-based surf instructor Kai Cordrey with conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, and solicitation to commit murder. (San Francisco Chronicle)
According to court documents and multiple reports, investigators believe the alleged plot stemmed from a long-running custody battle between Gonzalez and Avery over their young daughter. Prosecutors allege Francisco Gonzalez, a Miami attorney, became deeply involved in efforts to remove Avery from his granddaughter’s life and allegedly financed parts of the scheme through payments disguised as web-development work. Authorities claim approximately $10,000 was transferred to Kai Cordrey, who allegedly helped facilitate communication regarding the plot. (People.com)
The investigation reportedly dates back several years and involved undercover federal agents. Prosecutors allege the suspects discussed hiring a hitman through the dark web and explored ways to stage Avery’s death so it would appear to be a car accident. Court filings cited by several outlets claim coded language and Bitcoin payments were allegedly used during communications connected to the case. One undercover operative reportedly posed as a contract killer during parts of the investigation. (San Francisco Chronicle)
Jack Avery, now 26, rose to fame as a member of Why Don’t We, one of the biggest pop boy bands of the late 2010s. Avery had previously referenced FBI involvement during an interview in 2025, saying federal agents came to his home and that the experience left him fearful and traumatized. At the time, Avery did not publicly identify who was allegedly connected to the threats. (Court TV)
The case has exploded across social media because of Gonzalez’s online popularity. Gabbie Gonzalez built a large following on TikTok and Instagram by posting lifestyle videos, travel content, and clips featuring her daughter. News of the arrest quickly spread online Tuesday, with many users expressing shock at the seriousness of the allegations. Reddit discussions and entertainment forums immediately began dissecting court details and the timeline of the investigation. (Reddit)
Francisco Gonzalez remains in custody in Florida awaiting extradition to California, while the custody status of Kai Cordrey remains unclear in some reports. Prosecutors have not announced a trial date yet, but all three defendants could face decades in prison if convicted. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing as federal and Los Angeles County investigators continue reviewing evidence tied to the alleged conspiracy. (EW.com)
