Cheslie Kryst, Former Miss North Carolina, Dies Of Suicide At 30 In New York

CHARLOTTE, NC — Cheslie Kryst died Sunday night at the age of 30 after jumping from her apartment building in New York City, according to The Associated Press.

Her family released a statement Sunday evening mourning the death of the beloved lawyer, pageant winner and public speaker.

“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," her family said.

Kryst was born in New York but moved to the Charlotte region when she was young, later settling not far away in Rock Hill, South Carolina. She attended honors college at the University of South Carolina where she became a lawyer, all while still competing in pageants according to the News Observer.

After she was crowned as Miss North Carolina, she went on to represent North Carolina in the 2019 Miss USA competition, where she won.

It was a historic achievement, as it became the first time that all major pageant titles were held by black women.

Kryst was also a correspondent for Extra, a television program focused on entertainment and received accolades for her interviewing skills on the show, according to showrunners.

They offered a statement Sunday, noting "she was a beloved part of our Extra family and touched the entire staff. Our deepest condolences to all her family and friends."

Many Charlotte citizens have written tributes to the late star, including longtime WBTV anchor Molly Grantham.

"Cheslie Kryst was smart. She was fun. She was gorgeous, yes, but the former Miss USA was also a former civil litigation attorney, had opinions, was on various charitable boards in Charlotte, and often appeared in front of women's empowerment and networking groups," said Grantham.

"You just never, ever know what someone is going through," she noted before offering deep condolences to Kryst's loved ones.

Kryst reportedly left a suicide note leaving her belongings to her mother, according to The New York Post.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, there are resources to help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-8255. Its website offers services including a live chat.