Wualys Fuentes Aquino, a contestant in the Miss Universe Tegucigalpa 2026 competition, has been found dead at the age of 23, according to local authorities and pageant organizers.
The Miss Universe Tegucigalpa organization announced news of her death in a social media post on July 21, expressing heartfelt condolences to her family and friends, while remembering her for her warmth and generosity towards fellow competitors.
“She demonstrated her unwavering willingness to help, never refusing to support her colleagues.
“This news has deeply moved us, and all we can do is express our gratitude for her presence in this pageant, as she made a profound difference.
“May God grant her eternal rest.”
Speaking to Brazilian outlet “O Globo,” local authorities said Aquino was found unresponsive at her Honduras residence on July 20, after family members conducted a wellness check when they were unable to reach her for several days.
Emergency officials were called to the scene and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
An immediate cause has not been disclosed, as investigators are awaiting autopsy results.
Officials have not identified any suspects or released any additional details but are examining all possible scenarios, including medical causes or the possibility of criminal involvement.
Police have asked the public to avoid speculation during the investigation and say further information, including the results of the medical examination, will be released when it becomes available.
Aquino was awarded second place in the Miss Universe Tegucigalpa pageant last month, a regional competition that serves as a stepping stone to the national Miss Universe Honduras contest.
Luciana Núñez was crowned winner of the competition.
The sudden loss sent shockwaves across Honduras’s pageant community, where friends and fans have continued to post messages to her social media account honoring her memory.
