Skarlent Rodríguez, a 23-year-old Venezuelan model and crowned Miss Grand Orlando 2025, along with her boyfriend José Castro, were discovered lifeless on June 29 amidst the ruins of their residence in Catia La Mar, La Guaira. Their bodies were found five days following the catastrophic earthquakes that hit Venezuela on June 24, 2026.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by the family through a GoFundMe campaign. "Tragically, today, June 29, 2026, both were found deceased… side by side, together until the end," wrote the family on the platform.
The couple was in their apartment when the building succumbed to the seismic activity, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, marking the strongest quakes recorded in Venezuela since 1900, as per the United States Geological Survey.
Devastation in La Guaira
La Guaira bore the brunt of the calamity: 158 out of 189 buildings were completely destroyed in this coastal city, which was at the epicenter of the disaster.
The tragedy extended beyond the couple. José Castro's family also experienced devastating losses in the same quake, with his father, grandmother, uncle, and aunt all losing their lives.
Financial Strain and Fundraising Efforts
"The search and recovery process of the bodies has been exorbitantly costly. Skarlent's family has also been unable to work since the day we received the news," explained the relatives in a statement.
In an effort to cover the funeral expenses, estimated at $22,000, the Rodríguez-Castro family initiated a fundraiser that, at the time of publication, had gathered $12,000 of the initial $16,000 goal.
"Any contribution, no matter how small, is deeply appreciated. And if you can't donate, sharing this campaign is an immense help," they pleaded.
A Legacy of Passion and Resilience
Skarlent had previously lived in Florida, USA, before returning to Venezuela with her boyfriend. At just 22, she claimed the title of Miss Grand Orlando 2025, where she was described as a young woman "driven by passion, discipline, and purpose," with strong ties to music, modeling, dance, and acting.
Following her title, she represented her city in Miss Grand Florida 2025, achieving fourth place despite a physical condition affecting her from the back to her feet, making it challenging to walk in heels or stand for extended periods.
Upon receiving her crown, the young model stated, "This is more than a title, it's a mission: to be a voice, lead with heart, and leave a mark of kindness and strength."
Tributes and Mourning
Upon learning of her death, the Miss Grand International organization expressed their sorrow: "With deep sadness, we mourn the tragic death of Skarlent Rodríguez, Miss Grand Orlando 2025, due to the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela."
The Ivana García modeling academy, of which Skarlent was a part, also paid tribute: "Her elegance, sweetness, strength, and beautiful smile will forever remain in our hearts."
The passing of the young model adds to a growing list of Venezuelan public figures lost to the disaster, which, as of July 1, has resulted in an official count of 2,295 deaths and over 11,000 injuries, with the UN estimating up to 50,000 missing across the country.
Impact of the Venezuelan Earthquakes
How many buildings were destroyed in La Guaira due to the earthquakes?
In La Guaira, 158 out of 189 buildings were completely destroyed by the earthquakes.
What was the magnitude of the earthquakes that struck Venezuela?
The earthquakes that hit Venezuela had magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, the strongest since 1900.
What are the estimated casualties and missing persons due to the earthquakes?
As of July 1, there are 2,295 confirmed deaths, over 11,000 injuries, and the UN estimates up to 50,000 missing individuals.