Another tragedy has struck the Miss Universe pageant community. Wualys Aquino, a 23-year-old contestant who finished as the first runner-up in the 2026 Miss Universe Tegucigalpa competition, was found dead in her apartment in Honduras.
According to People, Aquino’s death was confirmed by the Miss Universe Tegucigalpa organization on July 21, just weeks after she secured second place in the regional pageant, which serves as a qualifying event for Miss Universe Honduras. In a statement shared on Instagram, organizers said they were “deeply” saddened by her passing and offered their condolences to her family and loved ones.
“This news has deeply affected us all, as it happened so unexpectedly,” the organization wrote. “Wualys was a woman who not only shone herself but also helped her fellow contestants shine. She showed us that she was always willing to help; she never said no when it came to supporting her peers.”
Aquino’s family became concerned after not hearing from her for several days. When they went to check on her at her apartment in Tegucigalpa on July 20, they found her dead. Authorities have launched an investigation and are exploring several possible causes, including natural causes or foul play. An autopsy is currently being conducted.
The pageant organization concluded its tribute by highlighting the lasting impact Aquino made during her time in the competition.
“We are profoundly shaken by this news, and we can only be grateful for her presence in this pageant, as she truly made a difference. May God hold her in His blessed glory.”
Aquino’s passing is the latest tragedy to affect the Miss Universe community, which has experienced several heartbreaking losses over the past year. Earlier this month, former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant LaToya Malcolm died at the age of 35, with fellow contestants and pageant officials honoring her legacy as an entertainer, dance instructor, and mentor.
Months earlier, in September 2025, former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant Tyra Spaulding died at 26 after previously speaking publicly about her struggles with suicidal thoughts in emotional YouTube videos.
Following Spaulding’s passing, the Miss Universe Jamaica organization remembered her as “a radiant soul and an amazing human being,” saying her kindness left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or experiencing emotional distress, help is available. In the United States and Canada, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you are outside those countries, contact your local emergency services or visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention to find a crisis center in your area.
