Miss Alabama, Zoe Sozo Bethel, died following a “tragic accident” authorities in Miami shared following a preliminary investigation into the pageant queen’s untimely death.
On Friday, February 11, Miami Police responded to “a call of a possible suicide attempt,” a statement obtained by People says.
Do Authorities Believe That Zoe Sozo Bethel Died of an Apparent Suicide or Another Cause?
After completing a cursory investigation, authorities believe the 27-year-old “fell out of a third-floor window.”
The victim, who was later identified as Miss Alabama for America Strong 2021, was transported by Miami Fire Rescue to Jackson Memorial Hospital in critical condition, authorities said. Unfortunately, she succumbed to her injuries on Friday.
Investigators relayed that the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner ruled her cause of death as blunt force trauma and that the manner of it was accidental.
“This was a tragic accident, and no foul play is suspected,” they also added.
The Victim’s Family Released a Statement After They Learned of Her Death.
News of Bethel’s death was first announced by members of her family on her personal Instagram account.
“On Friday, February 18, 2022, at approximately 5:30 AM Eastern time in Miami, Florida, our beloved Zoe Sozo Bethel passed from this life into the next as a result of succumbing to her injuries,” her loved ones captioned a gallery-style post with several pictures of Bethel.
“Zoe touched the hearts of many people and was actively affiliated with several organizations and groups namely, she was the current Miss Alabama (for America Strong), a political commentator for RSBN, a Brand Ambassador for Turning Point USA, and Liberty University’s Falkirk Center,” the family also shared in the post, explaining her conservative bona fides. “She was also a spokeswoman for Students for Life and affiliated with Project Veritas.”
“At this time of bereavement, effectual and fervent prayers are solicited for the family members, and the family asks that their privacy wishes be honored and respected,” the family said.
“The family members sincerely appreciate all of the kind words and expressions of love for Zoe,” the statement continued.
The family also asked for support to cover funeral costs and shared a link to a GoFundMe campaign.
Prior to Bethel’s death announcement, the family had shared news of her injuries, writing:
“Zoe had an accident Thursday night, February 10th, & sustained severe damage to her brain/brainstem & is in a coma. Unfortunately, the doctors are saying the damage cannot be repaired & that she may not have much time left,” they said in a post on her Instagram page.
“This has been an abrupt & very traumatizing situation for our family, & we can imagine how much of a shock this will also be to everyone who knows & cares for her,” the caption also said. “Keep Zoe & the family in your prayers.”
Her family members are not the only ones mourning Bethel’s tragic death. Mrs. Alabama America and Miss Alabama for America Pageants also released statements expressing their grief.
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“On February 18th, 2022, the world lost a queen,” the organizations wrote in a joint statement. “She was a light in this world and we are heartbroken over the loss of such a bright and beautiful woman. Rest in grace and love, sweet one.”
We are saddened to learn of Zoe Sozo Bethel’s death and hope her memory is a blessing to all who knew her. If you feel so compelled, visit the GoFundMe page for more information on how you can contribute.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
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