Cheslie Kryst, a former Miss USA and an NYC correspondent for Extra, has died at 30.
According to the New York Post, it is suspected that Kryst died by suicide. Her death was first reported early Sunday morning and it is said that she was alone during this time at a high-rise building where stayed in Midtown Manhattan.
Kryst initially won Miss North Carolina before winning Miss USA. During the Miss Universe pageant where she represented the United States, she made it to the top ten.
She was born in Michigan and her family later moved to the Charlotte, North Carolina area, living in the suburbs of Fort Mill and Rock Hill, South Carolina. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of South Carolina before graduating from the Wake Forest University School of Law, earning both a Juris Doctorate and a Master of Business Administration.
She along with several other women made history in 2019 when all four major U.S.-based pageants — Miss Universe, Miss America, Miss Teen USA and Miss USA — were won by all Black women. Kryst was also the just the third Black Miss North Carolina in history.
Kryst's family confirmed her death in a statement.
“In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie,” the statement reads. “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 works 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. As we reflect on our loss, the family asks for privacy at this time.”
Statement from the family of Cheslie Kryst: pic.twitter.com/2ie8wyUigz
— Joe Bruno (@JoeBrunoWSOC9) January 30, 2022
Early Sunday before her death, Kryst posted a message on Instagram that said "May this day bring you rest and peace”
View this post on Instagram
Our thoughts are with all of Kryst’s family and loved ones at this time.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline online or via phone at 1-800-273-8255 (for the deaf and hard of hearing, contact 1-800-799-4889).
