DANCER GONE
America’s Got Talent cheerleader Emily Gold, 17, found dead just months after standing ovation from Simon Cowell
Friends have left heartwrenching tributes for the teen
A CHEERLEADER who captured hearts with her performances on America's Got Talent has tragically died by suicide.
Emily Gold, 17, died just months after starring in the reality competition series alongside her high school dance team.
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On Friday just before midnight, the California Highway Patrol got calls that a teenager was wandering through traffic in Rancho Cucamonga, outside Los Angeles.
When they arrived at the scene, they found Emily's body underneath an overpass, and believe she was hit at least once, the CHP told The U.S. Sun.
She was declared dead at the scene, and the driver who hit her was nowhere to be found.
The San Bernardino County Coroner's Office confirmed to The U.S. Sun that she had died by suicide, but had no other details to share.
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The driver could face charges if they're found.
As dance captain for the varsity team, Emily played a key role in her team's elaborate performances on AGT.
The high school made it all the way to the quarter-finals and even scored a standing ovation from Simon Cowell in their audition.
Emily's family hasn't spoken publicly about her death, but friends have started to raise money to help them during this difficult time.
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A has amassed over $23,000 to support mourning relatives with funeral expenses.
On the fundraiser website, heartbroken supporters have left now-tragic memories they shared with the dancer.
"We remember all those long gymnastics days spent together," Rhonda Donlin wrote.
"Those Vegas trips. She will be missed dearly. May she rest in peace and may you all find some comfort in the arms of each other."
Full statement from Emily Gold's dance team
"It is with such a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beautiful, kind, and loving Emily Gold, senior and varsity captain.
Emily has always embodied every aspect of our core team values through her strength, commitment, kindness, compassion, and the most humble heart.
She will be remembered as a leader, role model, friend, and sister to her teammates.
Our sweet sweet Emily - We love you endlessly and miss you more than words can ever express.
Everything we do is for you, our beautiful angel."
MEMORIES SHARED
Emily shared now-tragic photos of herself smiling with other dancers as they blazed through the last season of AGT.
In one Instagram post, she described auditioning as "the most incredible experience."
Friends and classmates memorialized her in emotional comments on her post and prayed she would rest in peace.
"We will forever remember the beauty of your heart and soul," one person commented.
Another said, "I wish I could've said goodbye one last time. I hope you have found the peace that you deserve."
Her dance team released a statement on Sunday to mourn their senior varsity dance captain.
"Emily has always embodied every aspect of our core team values through her strength, commitment, kindness, compassion, and the most humble heart," the post reads.
"She will be remembered as a leader, role model, friend, and sister to her teammates.
"We love you endlessly and miss you more than words can ever express. Everything we do is for you, our beautiful angel."
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If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, chat on , or text Crisis Text Line at 741741.
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