Shayan Asadollahi

Their life

Shayan Asadollahi was a 28-year-old Iranian hairdresser and social media content creator from Azna in Lorestan Province who was killed by government security forces on 1 January 2026 during widespread protests. Known locally for his hairstyling videos and large online following, he was shot while returning home from a demonstration and became one of the earliest confirmed civilian fatalities in the crackdown on dissent.

Shayan Asadollahi was born in 1997 and lived in Azna County in Lorestan Province, a western region of Iran. He worked as a barber and hairdresser, building up a significant presence on social media by posting hairstyling videos that attracted a following of tens of thousands. Active in his local community, Shayan was also known for his supportive interactions with followers and dedication to his craft.

As nationwide protests erupted in late December 2025 and continued into January 2026 — initially over economic hardship and government mismanagement — Shayan took part in demonstrations in Azna. On 1 January 2026, security forces opened fire on protesters as they were dispersing, and Shayan was struck by a live round in the abdomen while returning home from a protest. He was one of at least six people killed in Azna on that day, as reported by human rights organizations.

How they died

He died from gunshot wounds inflicted by security forces

According to verified reports, Shayan Asadollahi was shot in the abdomen with live ammunition by government security forces (including IRGC-affiliated units) while leaving a protest in Azna on 1 January 2026. The shooting occurred as demonstrators were returning from the protest site, and at least two other protesters were also killed in the same incident. Authorities used military-style weapons and pickup trucks during the operation.

Why we remember them

This record exists so that Shayan Asadollahi, and all who are named in this archive, are never reduced to a number.

References & sources