They suggested the fish was already injured and didn't survive. The news drove emotional TikTokers to the platform with heartfelt tributes and theories – some even racking up views in the millions.

"We managed to pick up at least six dead fish, huge carp I think they were," said Fiona Linten. Shepton Beauchamp is near Ilminster, one of the places hit hard by the flood waters.

Adapted to the boom-and-bust flood cycles of Southern California's rivers ... by Los Angeles and the sprawl of the Inland Empire, this little fish requires clean water to survive. Its precipitous ...