Brynn Carnesecca, a 21-year-old beauty pageant contestant from Utah, died by suicide, her family confirmed. Carnesecca was crowned Miss American Fork in 2024 and received the Miss Congeniality award at the Miss Utah pageant in 2025. She was scheduled to compete in the Miss Provo competition on August 22.
Michele Carnesecca, Brynn's mother, spoke at a candlelit vigil, stating, "She took her own precious life, but she is more than what happened to her. We would like to celebrate the amazing life she lived." Carnesecca was also known for her talent as a pianist and her aspirations as a journalist. She had previously worked for a local television station and had her work published in several local newspapers, including the American Fork Citizen and the Lehi Free Press.
The Miss American Fork organization posted a tribute on Instagram, remembering Carnesecca as having a "beautiful smile, kindness, passion, and the way she supported everyone around her." The statement added, "You left the biggest shoes to fill for every Miss American Fork who comes after you."
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help cover funeral expenses. Her cousin, Kassidy Jackman Murdoch, described Carnesecca as a "bright light in our family and community" who "dedicated herself to sharing stories and spreading kindness." The campaign has raised approximately $27,400 toward its $40,000 goal. Carnesecca was expected to graduate from Brigham Young University in 2028.