Brazilian pageant queen dies at 22

Brazilian pageant queen Ana Beatriz Araújo Ferreira has died at the age of 22 after being struck by lightning during a light rainstorm in Almas, Tocantins.

The incident occurred on October 3 while Ferreira was reportedly looking after her young niece. Despite the relatively mild weather, lightning struck the area and left the young woman critically injured.

Ferreira was rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment but was later pronounced dead, according to local authorities.

Her brother, César Augusto, said Ferreira had been with her niece when the lightning strike occurred. He described the weather at the time as cloudy with only a light drizzle, making the incident particularly unexpected.

Augusto remembered his sister as a beautiful and caring person. He said that looking after her niece reflected the affection she had for her family.

Ferreira had recently achieved recognition after being crowned Queen of the Rodeo at the ExpoAlmas agricultural fair. Her death has prompted an outpouring of grief among her family, friends and members of the local community.

The organisers of ExpoAlmas paid tribute to Ferreira, expressing sorrow over her passing and remembering her connection with the region’s traditions.

The young woman was also pursuing her studies in physiotherapy at Unopar University. She is survived by her five-year-old son, along with her parents and siblings.

A wake and funeral ceremony were held on October 5 as relatives, friends and community members gathered to pay their respects.

Local authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal lightning strike.