Miss Grand Orlando 2025 winner found dead after Venezuela earthquakes

The pageant community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Venezuelan model Skarlent Rodríguez, who was crowned Miss Grand Orlando 2025.

Their deaths were confirmed on Monday night by family members after an intensive search operation in the heavily affected coastal region of Catia La Mar, in La Guaira state, one of the areas hardest hit by the powerful earthquakes, according to LaPatilla.

Rodríguez and her boyfriend, José Castro, were found dead after being reported missing for several days following the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24.

Venezuelan media reports and statements from relatives indicate that Rodríguez and Castro became trapped beneath the rubble after their apartment building collapsed during the earthquakes.

Search and rescue teams spent days combing through the debris as loved ones held onto hope that the couple would be found alive.

Those hopes were dashed when their bodies were eventually recovered.

Following confirmation of her death, Miss Grand Florida and the Miss Grand International organisation paid heartfelt tributes to Rodríguez on social media.

"With profound sorrow, we mourn the tragic passing of Skarlent Rodríguez, Miss Grand Orlando 2025, following the devastating earthquake that struck Venezuela. We extend our deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, and all those affected by this heartbreaking disaster. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Venezuela during this difficult time. May they find strength, comfort, and unity as they navigate the days ahead," the statement read.

The deaths of Rodríguez and Castro are among the many personal tragedies to emerge from the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24.

The twin quakes caused widespread destruction across several regions, particularly in La Guaira state, where residential buildings, hotels and other structures collapsed, displacing thousands of families and prompting extensive search and rescue operations.