Miss Universe contestant Wualys Suseth Fuentes Aquino, aged 23, was discovered dead in her apartment in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, on Monday, July 20, 2026. Worried relatives who had not heard from her for several days made the heartbreaking discovery and alerted authorities. Police sealed off the scene in the Altos del Trapiche residential area as forensic teams gathered evidence.
Autopsy Underway as Cause of Death Unknown
Authorities removed the model’s body for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death, which remains unknown. Officials have not ruled out foul play or natural causes as investigations continue. The National Autonomous University of Honduras (UNAH) student studied International Marketing and Social Work while pursuing a modeling career.
Rising Star in Pageantry
Wualys recently finished runner-up in the Miss Universe Tegucigalpa 2026 pageant, placing second behind winner Luciana Núñez. Organisers praised her talent, charisma, and supportive nature towards fellow contestants. She was considered a rising star in Honduras and often shared her love of travel on social media.
The Miss Universe Tegucigalpa organisation described her as supportive, kind, and committed. Friends remembered the “joyful and charismatic” young woman with big dreams. Her final social media posts are now being viewed with sadness by those who knew her.
Second Pageant Death in Days
Wualys’ death comes just days after Miss Universe Jamaica finalist LaToya Malcolm passed away at age 35. The Miss Universe Jamaica organisation announced Malcolm’s death on Saturday, July 18, in a social media tribute. Malcolm, an actress and dancer, competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica pageant and was a standout contestant.
The pageant wrote on Instagram: “In Loving Memory of LaToya Malcolm. We mourn the passing of MUJ alumna LaToya Malcolm, who proudly competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica Competition. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and loved ones. Rest peacefully, LaToya. You will never be forgotten.” Details regarding her cause of death are currently unknown.
The investigation into Wualys’ death is ongoing, with authorities awaiting autopsy results.
