NEWS'Extra' TV Show In Mourning: Billy Bush Co-Host Leaps To Her Death From New York City High-Rise
A woman who leapt to her death from a New York building early Sunday morning has been identified as former Miss USA 2019 and EXTRA cohost Cheslie Kryst.
Her body was found at 7:15 A.M. in the street below the 60-story Orion building. Kryst lived on the ninth floor, and was last seen by witnesses on the twenty-ninth floor terrace.
"In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie," her family wrote in a joint statement announcing the tragic passing. "Her great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength."
"She cared, she loved, she laughed and she shined. 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," the statement continued. "But most importantly, as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor and colleague — we know her impact will live on."
The message concluded asking for privacy for those close to the late attorney, so that they could grieve and "reflect on" their loss in this difficult time.
"Not only beautiful, but she was smart —she was a lawyer," a law enforcement insider said of the tragedy. "She has a life that anyone would be jealous of...It's so sad."
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Kryst, 30, was born in Jackson, Miss. to mother April Simpkins in 1991. She completed her undergraduate degree in marketing and human resource management at the University of South Carolina and graduated cum laude, before attending the Wake Forest University School of Law.
Only a few hours prior to taking her own life, Kryst shared her final thoughts to friends and fans on Instagram. “May this day bring you rest and peace,” she wrote on Sunday, January 30.
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
