Toddlers and Tiaras star Kailia Posey died by suicide, her heartbroken family has confirmed. The cause of the 16-year-old's death was corroborated by her mother on Tuesday.
She rose to fame on reality TV show, which followed youngsters and their parents as they competed in beauty pageants. The news of her death was first shared by her mum on Facebook on Tuesday in a statement which read: "I don't have words or any thoughts. A beautiful baby girl is gone.
"Please give us privacy as we mourn the loss of Kailia. My baby forever." The family also issued a tearful statement to TMZ confirming the tragic news.
It read: "Although she was an accomplished teenager with a bright future ahead of her, unfortunately in one impetuous moment, she made the rash decision to end her earthly life. She won countless crowns and trophies after competing on the pageant circuit her entire life."
The family statement continued: "Her highly acclaimed talent as a contortionist had already led to professional touring job offers, and she had recently been selected to be a cheerleader at her high school next fall."
It is understood Kailia had a love for aviation and wanted to continuing training to gain a commercial pilot's licence, while continuing her showbiz career. The star had celebrated her 16th birthday just a week earlier.
Her family has set up Kailia Posey Teen Crisis Intervention Fund in a bid to get 'much-needed resources to students in crisis.'
Among those paying their respects was America's Got Talent magician Kadan Bart Rockett, who shared under one of Kailia's Instagram posts from April: "Can’t even believe this has happened. I’m praying for you guys to get through this. She always was so kind to all of us. Rest In Peace."
Another message from a pageant speaking coach who worked with her read: "I have experienced alot of loss in my life, but this one stings differently. Kailia was one the funnest and funniest young ladies that I have ever worked with in my coaching career."
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