Friends and family of Miss USA Cheslie Kryst have been left searching for answers following her death over the weekend. Kryst, who was also a civil attorney known for doing free legal work for those who may have been unjustly sentenced, was just 30 years old when she died by suicide in New York City, officials said.
Kryst left behind her mom everything in a note, but didn’t give any reason, the NYPD stated.
Kryst had just hours earlier written in her final Instagram post. “May this day bring you rest and peace.”
Gayle King, her friend and co-host of “CBS This Morning,” said, “Nobody saw this coming. And this is what’s so upsetting to me. How do you know to offer someone help if they don’t know they need the help? That’s why this is hitting me so hard.”
Kryst was shocked by the suicide, especially considering how important mental health is to her. She spoke out to Inside Edition in 2019 shortly after being crowned Miss USA. “I do a lot to make sure I maintain my mental health and the most important thing I did was talk to a counselor.”
She also spoke out about her identity as a Black woman and the importance of making history with Mia Franklin, Kaleigh Garris and Miss Teen USA.
“I can’t believe it,”Kryst spoke in 2019. “I think it would be exciting as an onlooker, but it’s even more thrilling to be part of that trifecta.”
Kryst had five siblings and her family spoke about her “beauty and strength” in a statement after her death.
“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,”They said.
Visit the Helpline if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts. Suicide Prevention LifelineCall 1-800-273-8255 or visit the website
