According to The New York Post, Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA 2019, has died at age 30 after falling from a 60-story building at 350 W. 42nd Street in New York City at 7:15 a.m. local time on Sunday.
Per the publication, Kryst resided on the ninth floor of the Orion building and was last seen on a 29th-floor balcony.
“In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie,” Kryst’s family said Sunday in a statement. “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.”
Adding, “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.”
Kryst’s family has asked the public for privacy during this difficult time.
In a statement obtained by PEOPLE on Sunday, Extra expressed their grief about Kryst’s loss and extended its “deepest condolences to all her family and friends.”
The statement read, “Our hearts are broken. Cheslie was not just a vital part of our show, she was a beloved part of our “Extra” family and touched the entire staff.”
Our hearts are broken. Cheslie was not just a vital part of our show, she was a beloved part of our "Extra" family and touched the entire staff. Our deepest condolences to all her family and friends. https://t.co/KkkW7POQoU
— ExtraTV (@extratv) January 30, 2022
In May 2019, Kryst was named ‘Miss USA’ as ‘Miss North Carolina,’ joining other Black women, Nia Imani Franklin who won ‘Miss America,’ Kaliegh Garris who won ‘Miss Teen USA,’ and Zozibini Tunzi who won ‘Miss Universe’ in the same year.
In an interview with Good Morning America celebrating their historic accomplishments, Kryst expressed disappointment with several social media remarks regarding their achievements, saying:
“People will comment on our social media and be like, ‘Why are we talking about your race? You guys are just four, amazing women,'” she said at the time. “And I’m like, ‘Yes, we are four amazing women, but there was a time when we literally could not win!’ ”
Our thoughts and prayers go to the family of Kryst in this difficult time.
Rest In Peace Cheslie Kryst.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org for help and assistance.
Education: Computer Network Engineering, Computer Desktop Administration
Fave Song: Destiny's Child 'Dangerously in love'
Fave Colour: Grey.
With £1m what would you do: I would do my part to provide opportunities to the less fortunate. Then do my best to change the world in my own way through sports and talent building.
