Former Miss Ireland Fionnghuala O'Reilly pays heartbreaking tribute to Miss USA winner Cheslie Kryst who has died tragically after a fall from her building in New York City.
New York police responded to a call on Sunday morning after reports the 30-year-old model had fallen from the building.
The pageant star and TV presenter was pronounced dead on the scene.
The New York Police Department confirmed it was a death by suicide, according to CNN and a number of US reports.
Just hours before her death, Cheslie, who also worked as an attorney after her Miss USA victory to fight for social justice reform, posted an image of herself on Instagram.
She wrote in the caption: "May this day bring you rest and peace."
It was reported that she left a note which said she was leaving all her belongings to her mother.
Her family released a statement saying: "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 ExtraTV.
"But most importantly as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor and colleague — we know her impact will live on."
Cheslie was crowned Miss USA in 2019, and shared a room with Miss Universe Ireland’s Fionnghuala O'Reilly as they took on the International Miss Universe competition.
Paying tribute to her friend and ‘sister’, the Irish American star, 28, who is known affectionately as ‘Fig’ said she was still ‘in shock’ about the tragic news as she tried to pen her words.
She wrote: “Cheslie, to get to know you was a joy and to call you a friend was a privilege.
“I looked to you as a sister after we went through one of the most life-changing experiences together as roommates at Miss Universe."
Posting photos and video footage of them together over the years, she said the pair were 'destined to be friends' and told how she will miss the laughs they always shared together.
She went on: : “Before our pageant days, you ran track with my sister in college and I used to get my hair done by your sister.
“When we found out we were apart of the same Miss Universe class together, we became immediate friends.
“You have always given me words of encouragement and sage advice. I’ve always admired your sense of humour and will sorely miss the laughs we shared.
“You are a remarkable woman who inspired so many and left a positive impact on many more. I’m devastated that you left us so soon, Cheslie.
“I am so very sorry that you were in pain. Your light was felt by many and will continue to shine on. Rest in eternal peace.
“I pray for your family and send love to all that were as lucky as I was to know you…”
Miss Universe Ireland 2020 winner Nadia Sayers also penned a tribute to the late pageant winner, saying: “Fig I’m so sorry, this is such a massive loss, meeting her last year I can see how she impacted everyone she spoke to with her smile and witty words. Sending love x”
Fellow former Miss Universe hopeful Siera Bearchell, who represented Canada in the competition in 2016, was also among the stars to pay tribute to Cheslie following the news.
Sharing a video of the late star, the model and law graduate, 28, said: “One of the brightest lights to grace the pageant stage and touch lives around the world… our forever queen, Cheslie.”
She also encouraged anyone struggling with mental health to ‘please seek help’ and listed local numbers to call for her followers.
The Bachelor star Mari Pepin said: "Beautiful Ches, may you rest peacefully. We love you so much."
Miss USA 2015 and actress Olivia Jordan also commented: "Rest peacefully sister. The world will miss you and the light you shone so bright."
Her employers and colleagues at ExtraTV also released a statement to pay tribute to their late host, saying: “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.”
If you or someone you know has been affected by the issues raised in this article please contact: Samaritans helpline 116 123; Aware helpline 1800 80 48 48; Pieta House on 1800 247 247.
