She was crowned Miss USA in 2019
Cheslie Kryst, a former Miss USA pageant winner, has died by suicide at the age of 30.
Kryst was working as an attorney in North Carolina when she was crowned and spent her free time working to help prisoners who may have received unjust sentences.
The New York Police Department confirmed her passing on Sunday (January 30). They said they believe the cause of death to be suicide.
In a statement issued to
The Hollywood Reporter, her family 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.
"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."
By the time she competed in Miss USA, Kryst had obtained three degrees - a law degree, a master's of business administration degree from North Carolina's Wake Forest University and an undergraduate business degree from the University of South Carolina.
She also ran a fashion blog called
White Collar Glam and volunteered for a charity that provided underprivileged women with professional attire for jobs interviews.
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