Zoe Sozo Bethel, Miss Alabama, died on Friday after sustaining injuries during an accident on Feb. 10, The National reports.
Her family said the 27-year-old suffered "severe damage to her brain/brainstem," according to E! News.
In an Instagram post shared on her page, the pageant queens' loved ones wrote, "Zoe touched the hearts of many people and was actively affiliated with several organizations and groups."
In 2021, Bethel earned the crown of Miss Alabama for America Strong.
She was a former model and a Right Side Broadcasting Network political reporter. According to the Instagram post shared on her page, she was also affiliated with Students for Life and Project Veritas while living in Miami.
The Miss Alabama organization posted her picture and honored her legacy on the pageant's Facebook page.
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear friend and reigning Miss Alabama for America Strong, Zoe Bethel. She was a light in this world, and we are heartbroken over the loss of such a bright and beautiful woman," the organization wrote, according to Facebook.
Grace Saldana, the editor-in-chief for Right Side Broadcasting Network, tweeted a tribute to Bethel.
"In loving memory of Zoe. Besides the fact that she was always incredibly stunning, I'll always remember how convicted Zoe was in her faith in God, how dedicated she was to her beliefs in protecting life, and how much she cared for others. May she rest in peace," Saldana said on Twitter.
In loving memory of Zoe. Besides the fact that she was always incredibly stunning, I’ll always remember how convicted Zoe was in her faith in God, how dedicated she was to her beliefs in protecting life, and how much she cared for others. May she rest in peace ❤️ pic.twitter.com/nGRZNDjeC1
— Grace Saldana (@gracesaldanaa) February 19, 2022
Turning Point USA, a conservative organization, honored Bethel on their Twitter page.
We are honored to have known Zoe Bethel. She has been a pillar in the Conservative movement, always moving with grace and wisdom. She has inspired many, and her legacy will continue to touch the hearts of people everywhere.
You will not be forgotten, Zoe.
May she Rest In Peace pic.twitter.com/U5e1HtftG5— Turning Point USA (@TPUSA) February 20, 2022
Her family has set up a GoFundMe page to cover her medical and funeral costs, People reports.
