The mother of a Miss Universe Tegucigalpa contestant who was found dead has spoken publicly for the first time following her daughter's tragic passing.
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Wualys Aquino, 23, was found dead in her apartment in Honduras' capital, Tegucigalpa, on Monday, July 20.
According to local authorities, Aquino's family went to her home after they were unable to contact her.
Upon arriving, they discovered her body.
Miss Universe Contestant Found Dead at 23
Aquino's mother, Lilia Aquino, shared an emotional tribute during an interview with Honduran outlet TV Azteca Honduras.
It marked her first public comments since her daughter's death.
"I've had plenty of time alone to weep for my little girl," Lilia said. "From the moment I got the call while I was in the States, I told my sister not to let anyone touch her because I was coming back for her."
"I still feel like she's close to me."
Police have opened an investigation into Aquino's death.
Authorities have not ruled out either foul play or natural causes. This is as they continue to await the results of an autopsy.
Pageant Community Pays Tribute to Wualys Aquino
Aquino competed in the Miss Universe Tegucigalpa pageant last month, finishing as the runner-up behind winner Luciana Nunez.
The regional competition serves as a qualifier for the national Miss Universe Honduras pageant.
"The Miss Universe Tegucigalpa organization deeply mourns the passing of our runner-up, Wualys Aquino; we wish to express our condolences to her family and friends," the organization wrote in a statement.
"This news has deeply affected us all, as it happened so unexpectedly. Wualys was a woman who not only shone herself but also helped her fellow contestants shine."
"She showed us that she was always willing to help; she never said no when it came to supporting her peers."
Aquino had previously spoken about how much competing in the Miss Universe pageant meant to her after overcoming bullying during her teenage years.
Alongside modeling, she studied marketing and social work at university and had a passion for boxing and traveling.
Authorities are expected to release further details about the cause and manner of Aquino's death once the investigation and autopsy have been completed.
