Miss USA Cheslie Kryst’s ‘suicide’ seen in horror video as witnesses share shock after fall from 60-story building
CHILLING footage has emerged of the moment former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst fell to her death in an apparent suicide.
Kryst 30, was found dead on Sunday after falling from the 29th floor of her Midtown apartment building in New York City.
Cops believe that the former beauty queen, who lived on the ninth floor, jumped to her death.
In shocking surveillance video, which The Sun has chosen not to show, a body can be seen on the street outside of her home on Sunday.
One witness described seeing a body and blood on the block where she lived.
Scott Erik, 41, and Miles Bartelle, 30, told The Sun they saw cops outside the building on Sunday and described their shock at hearing of Kryst's death.
Erik said: "You never know what is happening behind closed doors. Even if people seem fine they might not be.
"This is a really easy city to get lost in. Check in with your people."
Most read in The Sun
Another onlooker – who did not wish to be named – told The Sun on Monday: "It was crazy and very sad. I've never seen anything like it."
Pictures from the scene show cops surrounding the victim with a blue tent.
Read our Cheslie Kryst live blog for the very latest news and updates...
Police sources told the that Kryst left a note behind for her mom April Simpkins, who was awarded the gong of Mrs North Carolina in 2002.
She is said to have “wanted to leave everything” to her beauty pageant mom.
Following Kryst's death, a statement from the Kryst family read: "In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie."
They added: "Her great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength.
"She cares, she loved, she laughed and she shined.
"Cheslie embodied love and served others, whether through her work as an attorney or 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."
CHILLING LAST POST
Hours before her death, Kryst uploaded a chilling post on Instagram of herself captioned: “May this day bring you rest and peace.”
Dozens of tributes have poured in as news of her death emerged.
American actress and 2015’s Miss USA Olivia Jordan said: “Rest peacefully sister. The world will miss you and the light you shone so bright.”
ExtraTV also took to their account to share a tribute to the late correspondent.
The organization said: “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.”
'HEARTS ARE BROKEN'
And the official posted: “We are heartbroken to hear about the passing of Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA 2019.
“Cheslie was an incredible example and a role model for so many. We send our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all those who knew her.”
Last year, Kryst wrote a now-heartbreaking essay about turning 30.
She discussed her struggles with aging, her work ethic, and her search for purpose.
In the essay, she penned: “Turning 30 feels like a cold reminder that I’m running out of time to matter in society’s eyes – and it’s infuriating.”
Kryst also practiced law in both and , with a focus on civil litigation.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
She founded the fashion blog White Collar Glam, which focused on helping women dress professionally on the job.
In 2019, she was crowned Miss North Carolina and represented the US at the Miss Universe pageant in December that year.
You're not alone
SUICIDE is the 10th leading cause of death in the US, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Leading Causes of Death Report from 2018.
There were "more than two and half times as many suicides" in the US than there were homicides, according to the .
For people ages 10 and 34, suicide was the "second leading cause of death" and the fourth for individuals ages 35 to 54.
Suicide is a vital health concern in the U.S. It affects all genders, races and ages.
This is why The-Sun.com launched the You're Not Alone campaign.
The campaign calls on readers to discuss their mental health issues with their family, friends and health professionals. We can all pitch in to help out others who may be suffering and help save lives.
If you are struggling to cope, you are not alone. There are many free and confidential programs in the US aimed to help those who are struggling with their mental health.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health problems, these organizations are here to provide support:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, , 1-800-273-TALK
- Crisis Text Line, , Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Hotline, , 1-800-273-8255
- Trevor Project, , 1-866-488-7386