The autopsy for Victoria Zardoya, a 20-year-old friend of reality television personality Milania Giudice, has been delayed, according to officials in Florida. A spokesperson for the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner Department stated that the autopsy had not yet been completed because Zardoya was an organ donor.
Zardoya died on July 27, 2026, after sustaining catastrophic injuries from a fall while exploring historic ruins at Fort Dade on Egmont Key. Her death was announced by Joe Giudice, Milania's father and a star on The Real Housewives of New Jersey. He described the incident as a "simple fall."
According to a friend, Victoria Silberbusch, Zardoya had traveled to Florida for a weekend visit with friends on July 24, 2026. Silberbusch recounted the events, stating that the group was preparing to leave when Zardoya fell. Initially, they believed the fall was minor, but soon realized she had fallen much further than anticipated. Friends immediately climbed down to reach her while others called 911. Flares were launched from nearby boats to aid first responders in locating the group, and urgent calls were made to communicate the severity of the situation. Paramedics arrived by boat, and a medical helicopter later transported Zardoya to a local hospital in critical condition.
Joe Giudice shared a tribute to Zardoya, expressing his grief and noting their long-standing connection. "Victoria, you were like a daughter to me. I watched you grow up with my daughter Milania. We were neighbors for years, and you became part of our family. I can’t believe you’re gone," he wrote. He reflected on the fragility of life, emphasizing that a "simple fall" while having fun led to the loss of a young life with a full future ahead. He urged others not to take days or loved ones for granted.
Milania Giudice, who had recently been arrested for assault in May, reposted messages from friends honoring Zardoya and shared childhood photographs of the two. Zardoya was a student at the University of Tampa and had recently vacationed in Ibiza and Portugal prior to her fatal fall. Friends remembered her as someone who lived life to the fullest, possessed a loud laugh, and was beautiful inside and out. Another friend, Ross, who was present during the fall, expressed deep remorse and devastation, stating he would live the rest of his life making sure Zardoya would be proud of him.