Sara Gilson, a social media influencer from Oklahoma, was fatally shot in an apparent murder-suicide involving her estranged husband, Jeremiah 'Shawn' Duffey. The tragedy happened less than two weeks after she posted a TikTok accusing him of being a paedophile. The case has drawn widespread attention as authorities investigate the events leading up to the deaths.
Gilson, 43, had built a following on TikTok, where she shared personal content and lifestyle videos. Earlier this month, she posted a video referencing the popular 'Netflix documentary' trend, writing that she was preparing for a documentary about her soon-to-be ex-husband, whom she accused of being a paedophile.
Authorities later confirmed that Duffey, 48, had been accused of sexually assaulting a minor before the couple's deaths.
TikTok Accusation Before Fatal Shooting
On 11 July, Gilson uploaded a TikTok video that appeared to discuss allegations against Duffey. The post used a social media trend where users pretend to film a documentary interview about dramatic or unexpected life events.
'Preparing for when Netflix drops a documentary about my soon to be ex husband who I just found out is a pedophile,' Gilson wrote in the video caption. The video gained even more attention online after news of her death emerged.
According to court filings, Gilson sought an emergency protective order against Duffey after police informed her about allegations involving a minor.
@mrsgilson I wish I was joking. #plottwist #netflix #documentary ♬ original sound - Sara 🌸🐚🌺
Allegations Against Duffey Involving Teenage Girl
The allegations against Duffey stemmed from an incident involving a 15-year-old girl who was part of a youth basketball team he coached. Police said the incident was reported on 9 June, after the girl and a parent came forward.
Authorities stated that another coach witnessed the alleged behaviour during an event at an elementary school and intervened before reporting it to the girl's guardian.
Court documents reportedly stated that Duffey was accused of sending inappropriate messages, kissing the girl, and touching her inappropriately. Police also said the investigation uncovered reports of similar alleged conduct involving the same player over an extended period across multiple states.
Following the report, police advised Gilson on how to seek legal protection. A Tulsa County court granted an emergency protective order on 10 June, requiring Duffey to stay at least 100 yards away from Gilson and her home.
Police Investigate Apparent Murder-Suicide
On 23 July, officers responded to a home in Collinsville, Oklahoma, after receiving a 911 call where dispatchers reportedly heard a woman screaming, followed by what sounded like a gunshot.
Shortly afterwards, Gilson's son called emergency services from a neighbour's home and reported that his stepfather had shot his mother.
When police arrived, they found both Gilson and Duffey dead with apparent gunshot wounds. Authorities said the incident appeared to be a murder-suicide, although the investigation remains ongoing.
Gilson's son was placed into protective custody before later being released to a parent who was not involved in the incident. Gilson also leaves behind a daughter.
Support Grows for Gilson's Children After Tragedy
Following Gilson's death, an online fundraiser was created to support her children, raising $28,804 (£21,600) so far.
The case has prompted renewed discussions about domestic violence, protective orders and the challenges faced by people reporting allegations of abuse. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Gilson and Duffey's deaths.
