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A POPULAR 16-year-old TikTok star has tragically died – and his death remains a mystery.
Joshua Blackledge died at his home in Newport, North Carolina, on March 18, according to his obituary.
The cause of his death is not yet known.
The teen had gathered over a million loyal followers on TikTok
Fans were drawn to his lip-syncing videos, and clips of him hanging out with friends.
His heartbroken girlfriend, Emmie Gillikin, wrote on social media: “Missing this sweet boy right now. never would’ve thought i would have been here without you.”
She continued: “Josh showed me what love really was even [though] I’m very young. He never failed to put a smile on my face no matter how mad i was at him.
“Even after these past couple days nothing seems real and I’m feeling all the emotions.”
Joshua’s final TikTok post was uploaded on March 14, where he showed himself hanging out with friends in a white pickup truck.
He leaves behind his grieving parents, Jonathan and Jackie Blackledge, and his brother Josiah.
A celebration of Joshua’s life was held on Sunday, according to an obituary from Noe-Brooks funeral home.
The statement said that Joshua was a junior at West Carteret High School, where he was involved in wrestling and track sport.
His other passions included fishing being on the water – whether fishing or boating – and cars and trucks.
The commemoration continues: “At home, Joshua liked helping his mom with cooking, gardening, and yard work. He had an energetic spirit and was known for his entertaining nature, often impressing others with backflips.”
Joshua’s fans were gutted to hear the news, and flooded TikTok with tributes.
One wrote: “There’s no way. I’m praying for Emmie. Rest in peace Josh.”
