Grindr Sued After Teen Found Dead by Couple She Met on App

TAMPA, Fla. — The family of a 16-year-old girl is suing Grindr, alleging that the app’s lax age verification allowed her to meet two predators who later murdered her.

The estate of Miranda Corsette filed the wrongful death suit in the U.S. Middle District of Florida, claiming Grindr’s negligence contributed to her death. The suit cites nine counts against the company, including negligence, wrongful death, and sex trafficking.

According to court documents, Miranda met 35-year-old Steven Gress on Grindr, where she was categorized under the app’s “twink” section. The lawsuit argues that Grindr’s reliance on self-reported ages made it easy for minors to access the app, allowing Corsette to meet Gress.

On February 14, 2025, Gress used the app’s geolocation feature to meet Miranda in person. After the meeting, Gress and his girlfriend, 37-year-old Michelle Brandes, allegedly suffocated Miranda with a billiard ball and dismembered her. The couple then disposed of her remains in a dumpster.

“Grindr’s lack of age verification and platform design substantially contributed to M.C.’s death,” the lawsuit states. “M.C. was just sixteen years old — a child when her life was stolen.”

The lawsuit accuses Grindr of creating a “dangerous platform” focused on profit, with little regard for safety. Other dating apps have implemented more effective age verification methods, such as biometric facial recognition systems.

Despite warnings about minors accessing the app, including concerns raised by a magistrate in Florida, Grindr reportedly failed to act. The lawsuit claims the app has ignored user complaints, putting young users at risk.

Following the alleged murder, Gress and Brandes were seen celebrating Brandes’ birthday at a local restaurant before disposing of Miranda’s remains about 55 miles away. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for both suspects, who are currently held without bond.

Miranda’s grandmother reported her missing on February 24 when she failed to return home. A witness later contacted police, leading to the suspects’ arrests. Both Gress and Brandes now face first-degree murder charges, with a pretrial hearing scheduled for July 8.