The international Miss Grand community is in mourning following the confirmed deaths of Skarlent Rodríguez, Miss Grand Orlando 2025, and her boyfriend, José Castro. The couple was discovered lifeless on Monday night, days after being trapped in the rubble of their apartment building in Catia La Mar, La Guaira state. Their tragic end came in the aftermath of twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, a disaster that has claimed nearly 2,000 lives and left thousands more unaccounted for.
Tragic Discovery Amidst Devastation
Rodríguez and Castro were reportedly caught in their apartment building when the seismic events hit the region. A prolonged search effort was underway to locate them after they were reported missing. Their bodies were eventually found together, a detail shared by loved ones on a GoFundMe campaign page established to help manage the financial impact of the tragedy. “Sadly both were found dead… side by side, together until the end,” the family stated on the fundraising page, reflecting the profound grief surrounding their loss.
Tributes from the Pageant World
The Miss Grand Florida organization was among the first to issue a statement following the confirmation of Rodríguez’s death. They paid heartfelt tribute to their former titleholder, remembering her as a woman who exemplified grace, kindness, strength, and positivity. The organization highlighted how she embodied the core values of the Miss Grand Florida family through her inherent confidence, deep compassion, and her remarkable ability to inspire those around her.
Further extending condolences, the Thailand-based Miss Grand International, the global pageant organization founded by Thai television host Nawat Itsaragrisil, also shared a message of sorrow. The organization acknowledged the profound grief felt by the community, stating, “With profound sorrow, we mourn the tragic passing of Skarlent Rodríguez, Miss Grand Orlando 2025, following the devastating earthquake that struck Venezuela.”
The international body conveyed its deepest sympathies to Rodríguez’s family, friends, and all those impacted by the catastrophic event. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Venezuela during this difficult time,” the statement continued. “May they find strength, comfort, and unity as they navigate the days ahead.” The organization’s message underscored the widespread impact of the disaster and the shared sense of loss felt across its global network.
Context of the Venezuelan Earthquakes
The earthquakes that led to this tragedy struck Venezuela on June 24, causing widespread destruction, particularly in the coastal state of La Guaira. The seismic activity, described as twin quakes, resulted in significant loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure. Official reports indicate that close to 2,000 people perished in the disaster, with thousands more still missing. Rescue and recovery efforts have been ongoing, complicated by the scale of the devastation and the ongoing seismic aftershocks that have plagued the region.
Catia La Mar, where Rodríguez and Castro resided, is part of the La Guaira state, an area heavily affected by the earthquakes. The collapse of buildings, including residential structures like the one the couple occupied, has been a common and devastating consequence of the tremors. The search for survivors and victims in the debris has been a painstaking and emotionally taxing process for emergency responders and the affected communities.
The Role of Pageant Organizations in Times of Crisis
Pageant organizations like Miss Grand International often serve as more than just platforms for beauty and talent; they foster a sense of community and solidarity among their participants and alumni. In times of personal tragedy or natural disaster, these organizations frequently rally to offer support, whether through public statements of condolence, fundraising efforts, or by mobilizing their networks to provide assistance to those affected. The tributes to Skarlent Rodríguez highlight this supportive aspect of the Miss Grand family, demonstrating a collective response to a devastating loss.
The establishment of a GoFundMe campaign by the couple’s loved ones is a testament to the financial and emotional toll such tragedies inflict. These campaigns aim to alleviate the immediate burdens faced by grieving families, covering expenses such as funeral arrangements, travel for relatives, and other unforeseen costs. The support from the wider community, including the pageant organizations, plays a crucial role in helping families navigate the immediate aftermath of such profound loss.
Looking Ahead: Resilience and Support
As Venezuela grapples with the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes, the focus remains on recovery, rebuilding, and supporting the thousands of individuals and families affected. The loss of Skarlent Rodríguez and José Castro serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of natural disasters. The outpouring of grief and support from the Miss Grand community and beyond underscores the importance of human connection and collective empathy during times of immense hardship. The resilience of the Venezuelan people will be tested in the coming months and years as they work to recover from this catastrophic event.
