Social Media Star Alysha Burney Dies at 24 During Her Vacation in Mexico

Charles Burney, the brother of the late social media star, was by Alysha’s side at the time of her passing and revealed that she died after suffering an asthma attack in her sleep. He described Alysha as deeply driven, creative, and someone who was “passionate about giving back.”

“She was not selfish with her knowledge and was a very open book about her journey. She will always be dearly loved, and her legacy will live on forever,” added the bereaved brother.

Alysha was not only a social media sensation with over five million followers across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, but she was also an emerging force in the film industry. She owned and operated her own production company, ABurneyProductions, which had already produced multiple projects such as “Shiesty,” “Shiesty II,” and “Lost Angeles.”

Alysha also produced “Hot Girl Getaway”—her fourth and latest film—before she passed away. After completing the project in 2024, she proudly shared behind-the-scenes glimpses of the movie on Instagram. The late filmmaker posted a carousel of images capturing the energy, dedication, and camaraderie on set.

One standout image in the series shows two actresses standing in the doorway of a sunlit home, engaged in conversation, while Alysha, with her back to the camera, appears to be directing the scene.

Another photo captured Alysha standing in front of a sleek black car, flashing a peace sign while holding an action clapboard. With a digital cityscape in the background and crew members setting up lighting, the scene exudes a cinematic feel.

In a different scene, a man is seen gripping the door handle of the same black vehicle, while another actor sits inside.

A closer look at the production process is shown through a camera monitor, where two male actors can be seen inside the car, exchanging looks that suggest a crucial moment in the film. The framing within the monitor offers a glimpse of Alysha’s keen eye for composition and storytelling through cinematography.

Another behind-the-scenes image shows Alysha lying on a bed, phone in hand, as captured through a camera monitor.

Alysha’s film set snaps also highlighted the collaborative effort behind the production. One image features a cameraman and a boom mic operator capturing an emotional scene where two actresses embrace.

The cover image of the carousel shows Alysha beaming as she holds an action slate, while an actor lies in bed in front of her.

Celebrating the project, she captioned, “That’s a wrap! 🎬 […] I enjoyed this project a lot. The most beautiful thing about writing is being able to turn my thoughts into reality! Thank you to everyone who helped my vision come to life! Be on the lookout.”

This post now serves as a poignant reminder of Alysha’s talent, ambition, and the incredible legacy she was building in the world of digital media and film.

All her projects, including “Hot Girl Getaway,” can be found on her YouTube channel. The late 24-year-old also had more productions in development before her passing.

Before embarking on the film project, Alysha was hand-selected to audition for the popular show “Wild ‘N Out” at just 19 years old.

Despite the opportunity ultimately not working out, the experience catapulted the incredible achievements she managed to amass throughout her life, according to her loved ones.

“Her lifelong goal was to be a writer and a director. Another goal she had was to return to Kansas City, open a production studio, and help other young creatives from Kansas City get to where she was,” divulged Charles.

Aside from her creative pursuits, Alysha, who was living in Los Angeles, had graduated from the University of Central Missouri. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Digital Media Production and was working toward completing her graduate studies.

After graduating in 2023, Alysha took to Instagram to celebrate the major milestone. In a heartfelt post, she shared her excitement and pride with a striking photo of herself standing confidently in a sleek white dress and graduation cap, embodying elegance and ambition.

She posed in front of a green screen beside a director’s chair and a professional studio light, symbolizing her aspirations in the film industry. The image perfectly captured her determination, celebrating not only academic success but also the bright future she envisioned for herself.

“THAT’S A WRAP! I attained my Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Production. After years of being in college, the best moment has come… GRADUATION. Now I’m one step closer to my dreams! #Classof2023 👩‍🎓” she wrote in her caption.

Now that she has sadly passed away, her protective big brother Charles is ensuring that Alysha’s legacy remains intact. As speculation surrounding her death spread online, he was quick to set the record straight.

“She does not do drugs. She was a self-loving and happy individual who cherished her life and was looking forward to the upcoming year’s plans,” he stated.

Charles also dispelled unreliable sources pushing false narratives and emphasized that Alysha was in Mexico to celebrate her birthday, and she carried herself with grace and dignity. “My sister did not engage in environments that would lead to such situations,” he clarified.

In an Instagram announcement post he shared about his younger sister’s passing, Charles, yet again, mentioned the misinformation circulating about Alysha’s death.

Alongside a stunning photo of Alysha posing in a vibrant purple gown against a city skyline, he expressed his deep sorrow and called for respect as their family grieves.

He then penned, “It is extremely difficult seeing all of the false narratives trying to defame her legacy and we are ready to take legal action for those continuing to spread false information regarding her passing.”

“We know so many people care about her and will share more information soon but just give us some time and please stop harassing the family ❤️ Her legacy will still live on FOREVER!! LongLiveAlyshaBurney 🕊️♾️” he concluded.

Like Charles, Alysha’s friend Gabriella Sanchez took to Instagram to speak out about her passing with a heartfelt tribute. Gabriella expressed the deep grief and love she feels for her late friend.

Accompanied by a carousel of images and videos capturing their friendship over the years—wild nights out, glamorous events, and throwback memories from their younger days—the post was a touching reflection of the bond they shared.

Gabriella also included clips of Alysha’s free-spirited nature, showcasing her dancing, laughing, and being her unapologetically goofy self.

Struggling to find the words to express her heartbreak, Gabriella described feeling “lost, broken, and empty” knowing they will never reunite again in this lifetime. She reminisced about their first meeting on a cruise ship in 2016, never realizing at the time how their friendship would continue to blossom in the years that followed.

“You were a blessing coming into my life, and I can’t express how eternally grateful I am for the TONS of laughter and memories you brought me,” noted Gabriella.

She also reflected on a phone call the duo had about a week before Alysha’s passing, cherishing the words they exchanged. While grief weighs heavy on her heart, Gabriella highlighted how Alysha’s energy, beauty, and legacy will live on.

“I wish you got to see my birthday video for you, because I know you would’ve been laughing hysterically,” she said, adding just how much she would miss hearing Alysha’s laugh. Closing her tribute with a bittersweet farewell, Gabriella wished Alysha a “Happy Heavenly Birthday.”

At this time, we wish to extend our most sincere condolences to Charles, Alysha’s other family members, Gabriella, and all her friends and loved ones. We hope for their healing amid their time of grief. RIP, dear Alysha.