Former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst was confirmed dead by New York law enforcement officials on Sunday. She was 30 years old.
Cheslie Kryst dies: What’s the cause of death?
As reported by New York Post, Kryst’s lifeless body was found sprawled near a 60-story building at 350 W. 42nd Street, at approximately 07:15 (roughly 13:15 CAT).
According to authorities, early indications suggest Kryst may have leaped to her death.
The 30-year-old was a resident at the building and was last seen alone on the 29th-floor terrace.
Kryst’s family, along with Extra TV, where she worked as a presenter, released a statement confirming the 30-year-old’s passing.
“She cared, she loved, she laughed and she shined. Cheslie embodied love and served others, whether through her work as an attorney fighting for social justice, as Miss USA and as a host on ‘Extra.’ But most importantly, as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor and colleague – we know her impact will live on,” the statement read.
Kryst, a qualified lawyer in her professional career, was crowned Miss USA in 2019. She competed in the 2020 Miss Universe pageant, where she finished in the Top 10.
Kryst family, friends and fans pay tribute to the fallen angel
News of Kryst’s passing sent shockwaves across social media, leaving fans, friends and the 30-year-old’s peers astounded by the untimely tragedy.
South Africa’s former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, who was close friends with Kryst, had not issued a public statement at the time this article was published.
Here are some of the reactions we picked out:
Mental health is something that needs to be addressed in pageants. Rest In Peace, #CheslieKryst. You were loved dearly. pic.twitter.com/RX0raoSz5i
— Renee Larson (@iamreneejai) January 30, 2022
It was such a beautiful year when Cheslie Kryst was Miss USA. We had 3 black queens. May she rest in peace 💔❤️
— MaraEspri (@MaraEspri) January 30, 2022
We must never stop having the conversation on mental health. pic.twitter.com/PYfYicfhSZ
Checked my email and so happened to see a PR email announcing the death of @CheslieKryst, Miss USA 2019. pic.twitter.com/8LXHXMhMyt
— Jasmine Styles (@JasmineStylesTV) January 30, 2022
We are devastated to learn about the loss of Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst. She was one of the brightest, warmest, and most kind people we have ever had the privilege of knowing. Our entire community mourns her loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family right now. pic.twitter.com/fuJHXeMnHa
— Miss Universe (@MissUniverse) January 31, 2022
