María Lorena Argüello, a Miss Universe beauty queen, has tragically died suddenly at the age of 28.
Argüello was a semifinalist in the 2024 Miss Universe Ecuador pageant.
According to a statement issued by the Concurso Nacional de Belleza, Ecuador’s national beauty pageant organization, Argüello passed away unexpectedly.
Her death was confirmed on Sunday.
However, no cause of death has been revealed.
All circumstances regarding her sudden passing have been withheld from the public.
In a statement, the organization said:
“We stand with respect and solidarity with her family and loved ones in this time of grief.
“Her memory will always be with us.”
Argüello was participating in her first competition during the 2024 Miss Universe Ecuador pageant.
She was representing Quito in the national competition.
Just weeks earlier, she had completed her medical studies.
She earned a degree in surgery from the University of the Americas on June 30, 2024.
Tributes from fellow contestants and friends have poured in following news of her passing.
María Topic, who won the Miss Universe Ecuador title in the same competition, wrote:
“Today, heaven gained a beautiful soul.
“My heart mourns your passing, but I trust that God holds you in his arms.”
Nadia Mejía, a former Miss California and contestant in the Ecuador pageant, also remembered Argüello fondly:
“[She was] always supporting others and lifting them up with her light.
“A true queen,” she added in a post on social media.
“Please pray for peace for her family and friends at this time.”
Another contestant, María José Córdova, reflected on the strong bonds formed during the competition, saying the group had become “a family.”
“Today, it pains us to see her go, but it comforts us to know that she did what she loved: discovering herself and shining,” Córdova wrote.
“Her passing reminds us that every step leaves a mark, and that with faith, love, and hope, we can continue fighting for our dreams.”
Argüello’s academic and pageant achievements were both noted in tributes.
Many are remembering her for her dedication, character, and positive spirit.
No further information regarding funeral services or memorials has been made public at this time.
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