The Miss Universe Jamaica community is in mourning following the death of LaToya Malcolm, a contestant in the 2024 pageant. Her family described the loss as "a really hard one to take" in a statement shared on social media.
Miss Universe Jamaica announced the news on Saturday, July 19, 2026, posting a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. "Rest peacefully, LaToya. You will never be forgotten," the organization wrote, extending condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones.
LaToya Malcolm's Journey in the 2024 Pageant
Malcolm represented herself on the national stage during the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica Competition. She earned admiration not only for her presence but for the resilience she displayed throughout the experience. Those who worked closely with her during the Miss Universe East segment revealed that she was grieving the loss of her father at the time, yet she pushed through every stage of the competition with grace.
Outpouring of Grief on Social Media
Friends, fans, and former colleagues have taken to social media to express their shock and disbelief. Former classmates, makeup artists, and others who knew her beyond the pageant circuit shared emotional tributes.
Instagram user @_deborahgordon wrote: "Grief is weird because the main question on my mind is what happened to Latoya? She was thriving, and she was well. She was here, and now she's not. Just like that? Condolences don't make sense right now, because I don't believe she's gone. I still have to go watch her act in one of her shows. We still have catching up to do. What do you mean she's gone? Forever? She's not just asleep, but gone?"
@javixxix commented: "Wow, my Ardenne classmate. Gone too soon."
@makeupbycammy shared: "I met her in 2024 when I did makeup for Miss Universe East and to hear this has shaken my world. So young and talented. May God comfort her family and friends."
@tropi_tips_studio recalled: "She was such a wonderful person. When I met and worked with her in 2024, she was a breath of fresh air. Even though she was grieving her dad's passing at the time, she pushed through the Miss Universe competition. Rest In Sweet Peace Latty."
Other reactions included @leahcimthewright's "Jah knw RIP Latty," @_like.a.rose_'s "Rest in peace Latoya," and @jayfabulous90's "Girl this hit hot sleep in peace Lattt."
Earlier Tragedy: Skarlent Rodríguez Dies in Venezuela Earthquake
In a separate tragedy, Legit.ng reported that beauty queen Skarlent Rodríguez and her boyfriend, José Castro, died in the deadly Venezuela earthquake. The couple went missing after the devastating natural disaster that struck on June 24. Family members searched for them before authorities confirmed both had died. Their bodies were found in one of the hardest-hit areas, bringing a heartbreaking end to the search.
LaToya Malcolm's death has left a void in the pageant community, with many remembering her as a warm, determined young woman who refused to let personal hardship define her public journey.
