WASHINGTON — Kseniya Alexandrova, a Russian model and former Miss Universe contestant, has died. She was 30. 

Alexandrova, who was Russia’s representative in the 2017 Miss Universe competition, passed away on August 12, as announced by her modeling agency. Modus Vivendis paid a heartfelt tribute to her on Instagram on August 13 but did not disclose the cause of her death.

“Ksenia was a bright, talented, and incredibly vibrant individual. She had a unique ability to inspire and support those around her, spreading warmth to everyone. To us, she will always be a symbol of beauty, kindness, and inner strength,” expressed the modeling agency in their tribute, translated into English. “We deeply mourn her loss and extend our sincerest condolences to her family, friends, and anyone fortunate enough to have known Ksenia. A shining memory…”

Russian news source RIA reported that Alexandrova and her husband were involved in a car accident in Tver Oblast, Russia, when a moose suddenly appeared on the highway. The former Miss Universe participant remained in a coma for several days following the accident before passing away on August 12.

Her husband, whose name was not disclosed in the report, mentioned to the outlet that the accident happened so quickly that there was no time to react, and the moose collided into their vehicle, striking Alexandrova on the head.

The couple had been married for about four months before the accident, according to Alexandrova’s Instagram.

The Miss Universe Organization also paid tribute to the model on Instagram days after her death. 

“The Miss Universe Organization offers its deepest and sincerest sympathies to the family, friends, and everyone who was touched by the presence of Miss Universe Russia 2017, Kseniya Alexandrova. Her elegance, beauty, and spirit left a lasting impression on the Miss Universe community and beyond,” stated the organization. “May her legacy inspire kindness, strength, and love in all who had the honor of knowing her. 🤍🕊️”

Besides her modeling career, Alexandrova was also a practicing psychologist, holding a degree from Moscow Pedagogical State University, as revealed in a 2022 Instagram post.