The father of Miss USA Cheslie Kryst has spoken of “family dysfunction” after his daughter's tragic death.

She plummeted to her death from a high-rise building in Manhattan, New York, on Sunday night aged just 30 with her father Rodney Kryst saying “she was sad” as he paid tribute to his "pure" daughter.

Rodney who is divorced from Cheslie's mother April Simpkins, believed his child had not taken “any drugs” and that she was “pure”.

Speaking to the New York Post in tears, Rodney said: “She was pure as can be, she didn’t take any kind of drugs or prescription medication.

“She never had any kind of substance abuse problem.

“I think it had a lot to do with family dysfunction, but it will be awhile before we can talk more. She was sad.”

Rodney, who is a 62-year-old former bodybuilder, split with Cheslie's mum when the beauty queen was still very young and was one of four children the couple had together.

Cheslie was a lawyer and TV presenter but first hit the headlines after winning Miss USA in 2019.

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She was also placed in the top 10 in the Miss Universe contest, held in the very same year.

Cheslie also received an Emmy nomination in 2020 for her work as New York correspondent on Extra, a US entertainment programme.

She was found by police at about 7:15am on Sunday outside the Orion condominium building, where she lived on the ninth floor.

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Police say Cheslie was alone when she fell from the terrace on the 29th floor.

Following her death, her family said in a statement: “In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie.

"Her great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength. She cared, she loved, she laughed and she shined.

“Cheslie embodied love and served others, whether through her work as an attorney fighting for social justice, as Miss USA and as a host on Extra. But most importantly, as a daughter, sister, friend, mentor, and colleague — we know her impact will live on.”

Cheslie wrote about "working herself to death" before her fatal balcony fall while witnesses were said to be "traumatised" after seeing herself plummet to her death.

For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected], visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.

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