News April 27, 2022
Cheslie Kryst’s Family to Hold Public Vigil on What Would’ve Been Her 31st Birthday

The family of Cheslie Kryst is honoring the late pageant queen in a public vigil on what would have been her birthday.
In a statement obtained by outlets including People, Kryst’s family said that on Thursday, April 28 — the date of her 31st birthday — they will hold a public vigil at South Carolina's Fort Mill High School football stadium from 7-8 p.m.
At the event, attendees are encouraged to release balloons to celebrate the life of the “Extra” correspondent and Miss USA 2019, who passed away on January 30 from suicide.
"On April 28, Cheslie would have turned 31 years old," her parents April and David Simpkins said. "As that date approaches, we are already experiencing a remarkable outpouring of love and support for our Cheslie, for which we are tremendously grateful."
April and David added that they have approved four "organizations that are set up to receive charitable donations in her honor."
Those organizations are Dress For Success – The Cheslie Kryst Women's Advancement Fund; Wake Forest University School of Law – The Cheslie C. Kryst Social Justice Scholarship; University of South Carolina – The Cheslie C. Kryst Scholarship Fund; and The Dean's List – The Cheslie C. Kryst Woman in Media Award.
However, Kryst’s parents warned that no other groups are currently authorized to use Kryst's name and likeness for advertising or trade, and have slammed organizations "seeking to profit improperly from our daughter's memory."
On January 30, authorities say Kryst died after jumping from a 60-story building at 350 W. 42nd St. in New York City around 7:15 a.m. that day.
The outlet adds Kryst reportedly lived on the ninth floor of the Orion building and was last seen on a 29th-floor terrace.
Days later, the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed that Kryst died by suicide.
During her memorial service in February, April gave a speech that honored Kryst’s many accomplishments.
"Cheslie throughout her life sowed many seeds through her work, her philanthropy, her advocacy, and most importantly, her genuine care for others," April was quoted as saying via The Charlotte Observer.
At the service, family spokesperson LaToya Evans urged attendees to give back to their community, as Kryst did throughout her life.
"Organizations that have said Cheslie gave so much to us, it's now time to continue her legacy and give to others on her behalf," Evan said.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Years ago, Cheslie appeared on our show and discussed the fashion from that year's Oscars. WATCH, below: