The pageant world is mourning the tragic loss of Miss USA 2019.

On Sunday, it was confirmed that the Extra host and Miss USA 2019 titleholder, Cheslie Kryst, died of an apparent suicide. She was only 30 years old.

In a statement, Kryst’s family spoke about the late star’s legacy, sharing: “In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie. Her great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength. She cared, she loved, she laughed and she shined.”

Kryst, was former Division I athlete and North Carolina attorney. She won the Miss USA pageant in May 2019 and competed in the Miss Universe pageant that year. When Kryst was crowned, for the first time, Black women were the reigning Miss USA, Miss Teen USA and Miss America.

Kryst provided commentary at last month’s Miss Universe pageant, which called her “one of the brightest, warmest, and most kind people we have ever had the privilege of knowing. Our entire community mourns her loss.”

Cheslie Kryst

Miss USA Cheslie Kryst on the Miss Universe 2019 stage at Tyler Perry Studios on Dec. 8 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Getty Images)

According to police, Kryst’s body was found at approximately 7am on Sunday in front of the Orion building, on West 42nd Street in midtown Manhattan.

Kryst, who lived on the ninth floor of the building, was alone when she jumped. She was last seen on a 29th-floor terrace, sources said.

Sources said Kryst left behind a note saying she wanted to leave everything to her mother. She is a former pageant competitor herself who was crowned Mrs. North Carolina in 2002. The note didn’t include a motive for Kryst’s actions, sources said.

Paying Tribute To Cheslie 

Since news of Kryst’s death, many celebrities and organizations to which Kryst contributed have paid tribute to her on social media.

“I’m devastated I just found out about My friend @chesliekryst passing I just don’t know what to say what to feel this is crazy,” Kenya Moore of Real Housewives of Atlanta wrote on Instagram. “We were always texting and talking and in constant contact laughing and sharing. Literally I just spoke to her last week.”

Loni Love also honored Kryst. She shared a video of the two together with the caption, “This is how I will remember #CheslieKryst.. smart, beautiful and talented.. I wish we had more time …Such a wonderful young woman.. Condolences and prayers to her family.”

Many of her Miss Universe and Miss USA “sisters” also shared their tributes a to Cheslie Kryst. They emphasized on the importance of mental health and seeking help.

 

Published by HOLR Magazine 

Subscribe to HOLR Magazine