The joy and smiles during the Miss Universe 2025 preliminary competition were overshadowed by the dramatic accident suffered by Gabrielle Henry, Miss Universe Jamaica, on stage. It happened during her turn in the evening gown segment when, without realizing it, she stepped off the edge of the stage, causing her to fall and shocking those present, including Raúl Rocha, president of the Miss Universe Organization, and Nawat Itsaragrisil, director of Miss Universe Thailand.
For every contestant, this is one of the pivotal moments on the road to the final, where they shine before the judges and MUO executives. Each participant showcases her national costume, swimsuit, and evening gown as she walks the runway at Impact Arena in Pak Kret, Thailand.
At the moment of the accident, Miss Jamaica was wearing a long orange gown with sparkling embellishments and a high slit, along with a matching cape that added movement and femininity. With her gaze held high, Gabrielle continued along the path she had already taken that night, but with one step, she completely lost her footing, falling into one of the openings in the stage design.
Immediately, Raúl Rocha and Nawat Itsaragrisil jumped from their seats and ran to help the 28-year-old model, who was unable to stand.
Paramedics entered the venue and, under dimmed lights, while the show had to go on with the remaining contestants, Gabrielle was taken away on a stretcher to receive specialized medical care.
Raúl Rocha shares health update on Miss Universe Jamaica
Rocha not only helped Gabrielle right after the accident but has been closely monitoring her condition, staying by her side at the hospital until he was certain she was out of danger. Through a statement on his personal social media, he shared an update on the health of the Kingston native.
“I would like to share with the Miss Universe family, who are concerned about our Miss Universe Jamaica’s health, that at 12:00 am Bangkok time, I just left the hospital where she is being treated. I was there with her and her family, and fortunately, she has no broken bones and is receiving excellent care,” said the MUO president.
Rocha added, “She will remain under observation for the rest of the night, and we will stay in touch with her family to offer support. Our prayers are with her for a quick recovery.” For now, it is unknown whether Gabrielle will continue in the competition, which will hold its final this Thursday, November 20.
Gabrielle Henry, 28, is a doctor and advocate who blends science with service through her work in ophthalmology and her foundation supporting the visually impaired. She was crowned last August and was finally seeing her longtime dream of competing in Miss Universe come true, after entering her national pageant in 2023 but not winning the crown that year.
Other incidents days before the final
During the preliminary stage, Danielle Latimer, Miss Universe Great Britain, also had an accident, though a less serious one. During the national costume segment, she appeared dressed as Eliza Doolittle, the character from the 1964 musical film My Fair Lady, pushing a flower cart.
When she picked up a bouquet to offer it to the audience, she tripped and fell to the ground. Uninjured, she stood up and continued her moment onstage, removing the green coat she was wearing to reveal a white dress with silver details.
Miss Universe Mexico, Fátima Bosch, was also injured. It happened in her hotel room, where she stepped on a piece of glass that embedded itself in the sole of her foot. Determined to win the crown, she has decided to compete in the final and postpone medical treatment until afterward.