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Tyra Spaulding, a 2023 Miss Universe Jamaica contender, was found dead in her apartment of a suspected suicide, on Tuesday. She was 26. <\/p>\n
Spaulding\u2019s relatives discovered her dead in her bedroom, The Gleaner<\/a> reported, citing the Jamaica Constabulary Force\u2019s Corporate Communications Unit. <\/p>\n Police are investigating Spaulding\u2019s death as a possible suicide, US Weekly reported. <\/p>\n The Miss Universe Jamaica<\/a> organization shared on Thursday an Instagram post<\/a> honoring Spaulding with a series of photos. <\/p>\n \u201cOur hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of the beautiful Tyra Spaulding. She was a radiant soul and an amazing human being,\u201d the organization posted. \u201cHer light, grace, beauty and kind spirit touched every life she encountered, leaving memories that will never fade.\u201d<\/p>\n Alongside 29 fellow contestants, Spaulding rose to the top 10 finalist spot in the Miss Universe Jamaica competition in August 2023 in Kingston, Jamaica. Contestant Jordanne Levy<\/a> ultimately won the competition, according to the organization\u2019s Instagram page.<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cShe had a smile that lit up every room, bringing warmth and joy to all who had the privilege of knowing her,\u201d the organization posted. \u201cWe at the Miss Universe Jamaica organization keep Tyra\u2019s family, friends, and loved ones in our heartfelt prayers as we celebrate the beautiful life she shared with us.\u201d <\/p>\n On her YouTube channel, Spaulding posted several videos talking about her mental health struggles, People.com reported. <\/p>\n \u201cI resigned from my nine to five job, but it was a terrible decision because my mental health just took up plummeted,\u201d she said in a video posted<\/a> on Aug. 30. \u201cAnd guys, I was at the point where I made a plan to kill myself, so anybody on air, considering (leaving your job) just don\u2019t don\u2019t do it.\u201d <\/p>\n Spaulding in the video also disclosed that she had attempted suicide previously but was currently in therapy thanks to the help of her former boss. <\/p>\n In another video posted on Sept. 5<\/a>, she said, \u201cI\u2019m 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 \u2026 I am fighting for my life \u2026 I\u2019m definitely in a battle right now.\u201d<\/p>\n Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be reduced. If you are in crisis, call the National 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 9-8-8 or visiting 988lifeline.org.<\/i><\/p>\n If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement<\/a> and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and\/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n