Tragic Loss: Former Miss Universe Jamaica Finalist Tyra Spaulding Dies at 26 After Mental Health Struggle

Tyra Spaulding, a 26-year-old former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant and 2023 finalist, was found deceased in her apartment on Tuesday, September 23. According to The Gleaner, authorities from the Jamaica Constabulary Force's Corporate Communications Unit are investigating her death as a suspected suicide.

Her passing occurred just weeks after she publicly shared her struggles with suicidal thoughts in emotional videos posted online.

The Miss Universe Jamaica organisation confirmed her death on Instagram on September 24 with a heartfelt tribute. They shared a touching photo and video showcasing Spaulding confidently walking the runway in a stunning yellow gown, smiling brightly as the audience cheered.

"Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of the beautiful Tyra Spaulding. She was a radiant soul and an amazing human being. Her light, grace, beauty and kind spirit touched every life she encountered," stated the organisation in their tribute.

They added, "We at the Miss Universe Jamaica Organisation keep Tyra's family, friends, and loved ones in our heartfelt prayers as we celebrate the beautiful life she shared with us."

Prior to her death, Spaulding had been transparent about her mental health challenges through YouTube videos. In an August 31 video, she revealed that resigning from her job had negatively affected her mental wellbeing. On September 5, she posted another video discussing her daily struggle with suicidal thoughts and feeling overwhelmed by entrepreneurial pressures and personal difficulties.

"I'm fighting for my life over here. I feel like I need to go out and do something because my mind is trying to kill me. And if I do nothing, I am going to die, guys. Everyday I get up, my mind tells me to go and jump off a building. It tells me to go and overdose on pills. It tells me to go and hang myself," she disclosed in the video.

Before pursuing modeling, Spaulding had worked in accounting after graduating five years earlier. She was widely remembered for her friendly demeanor, intelligence, and determination.