Police said former Miss USA, Cheslie Kryst, 30, died Sunday morning after jumping from a Manhattan apartment building. Kryst also worked as a correspondent for the entertainment news outlet “Extra.” She was pronounced dead at the scene.
A family statement confirmed her death.
“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,” her family stated.
“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 won the Miss USA pageant in 2019. She competed in the Miss Universe pageant that same year. She was also a former Division I athlete and a North Carolina attorney.
Kryst made history when she was crowned in 2019. Three black women were simultaneously reigning Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, and Miss America for the first time.
In a statement Sunday, “Extra” described Kryst as “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.”
Kryst was praised as “a woman of many talents” by the University of South Caroline. In addition to her many accomplishments, Kryst held an MBA from Wake Forest University.
Kryst’s body was found around 7 a.m. Sunday in front of a high rise on West 42nd Street, in Midtown Manhattan, called the Orion building.