Two Filipino Miss Universe title holders—Catriona Gray and Pia Wurtzbach—and the New York-based Miss Universe organization have mourned the passing of Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst on January 30, aged 30.
Kryst was reported to have jumped from her Manhattan apartment in New York, and her body was found on the sidewalk outside the building, according to police investigators.
The cause of death was not indicated in the statement released by her family, but police confirmed it was death by suicide, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2019 Gazini Ganados also expressed grief, as well as actress Marian Rivera, who was with Kryst as one of the judges in the recent Miss Universe pageant.
“So sorry, Cheslie… you were so kind. Thank you. You’re an inspiration and loved by so many. Rest in peace, Cheslie,” Wurtzbach said.
“You will be missed my love! You were the sweetest. Heaven has gained another angel! I love you [so much] Rest easy,” Ganados stated.
Catriona, born Elisa Magnayon Gray, is a Filipino-Australian model, singer, beauty queen, television personality, youth advocate, and arts ambassador crowned Miss Universe 2018.
Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, formerly known professionally as Pia Romero, is a Filipino-German model, actress, and beauty queen known for being crowned Miss Universe 2015. She joined Binibining Pilipinas pageant three times and won in 2015 in her third attempt.
The Kryst family statement read via The Hollywood Reporter said “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…But most importantly, as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor, and colleague—we know her impact will live on.”
Gray urged the public to reach out to their friends and loved ones who need mental health support.
“Let’s reach out to friends and loved ones. These continue to be isolating times, mental health is so important, let’s not downplay its importance in the lives of every individual,” she said.
