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Zoe Sozo Bethel, crowned Miss Alabama in 2021, has succumbed to severe injuries from an undisclosed accident on February 18. Bethel was only 27 years old, and friends and family flocked to social media to honor her memory.

Though Bethel’s family have not revealed the exact cause of the accident, they shared that she suffered extreme damage to her brain and brain stem which caused her to go into a coma.

“Unfortunately the doctors are saying the damage cannot be repaired & that she may not have much time left,” Bethel’s family shared with PEOPLE, shortly before her passing.“We are praying for God’s will to be done, regardless of what that may look like.”

“This has been an abrupt & very traumatizing situation for our family, & we can imagine how much of a shock this will also be to everyone who knows & cares for her,” Bethel’s family continued.

The family took to social media to raise money through a GoFundMe for Bethel’s medical and funeral expenses. More than $40,000 of the $500,000 goal has been raised so far.

The Miss Alabama pageant shared its condolences and memory of Bethel through Instagram.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear friend and reigning Miss Alabama for America Strong, Zoe Bethel. She was a light in this world and we are heartbroken over the loss of such a bright and beautiful woman. Rest in grace and love, sweet one.”

“Besides the fact that she was always incredibly stunning, I’ll always remember how convicted Zoe was in her faith in God, how dedicated she was to her beliefs in protecting life, and how much she cared for others. May she rest in peace,” shared Grace Saldana, editor-in-chief of Right Side Broadcasting Network in a tweet.