NEW YORK — Cheslie Krast, Miss USA 2019 Winner and a correspondent on the entertainment news program Extra, has died at the age of 30.
Kryst, according to police, jumped from an apartment building in Manhattan and was declared dead on the spot Sunday morning. In a statement, her family confirmed her death.
“In great sorrow and devastation, we mourn the loss of our Cheslie. Her family stated that her great light inspired many people around the globe with her beauty, strength and inspiration.
“Cheslie was a model of love and service. She served as Miss USA, Miss USA, and an attorney fighting for social justice. Her family stated that Cheslie was a sister, friend and mentor to many, but most importantly she will be remembered as a daughter, sister, niece, aunt, and cousin.
Kryst is a former Division I athlete, North Carolina attorney. She won the Miss USA pageant, and also competed in Miss Universe that year.
Kryst’s crown was more than just a personal victory: It also meant that Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, and Miss America were the first time three Black women had been crowned.
Kryst was described by “Extra,” a nationally syndicated television program, as “not only a crucial part of our show but she was also a loved part of our Extra family” and touched the hearts of the entire staff. We send our deepest condolences and sympathies to her family members and friends.
Kryst was a commentator at the Miss Universe pageant last month, where she was called “one of our brightest, most warm and kind people we have ever had to know.” Her loss is felt by the entire community.
The University of South Carolina honored Kryst as a former student-athlete and called her “a woman of many talent.” Kryst also holds an MBA from Wake Forest University.
Police say Kryst’s body found in the Orion building on West 42nd Street, midtown Manhattan, at 7:07 a.m. Sunday according to police.
