Sahara Ray, an Australian model, fashion designer, and former partner of pop star Justin Bieber, has passed away at the age of 34. A fentanyl overdose is suspected as the cause of death.
According to the Daily Mail and other major international news outlets on the 19th (local time), Ray was rushed to a Los Angeles hospital on the 16th following an overdose of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid. An insider reported that she remained on life support until her family made the decision to withdraw life-sustaining treatment on the 18th. An official cause of death has not yet been released by authorities.
Ray’s passing comes just nine months after she gave birth to her daughter, Snow Ray Dow, in January. In April, Ray publicly introduced her baby daughter by sharing a video capturing moments they spent together.
The daughter of renowned professional surfer Tony Ray, Sahara Ray established herself as a model and fashion entrepreneur. She launched her own swimwear brand and built a substantial following as a social media influencer. She drew international attention in 2016 following high-profile reports that she was dating Justin Bieber.
In a statement provided to local media, Ray’s mother, Gretchen Bach, expressed her grief: “Sahara was a passionate and kind young woman who loved her family, fashion, surfing and, above all, her young daughter, ‘Snow.’” She added, “We are grateful to the fans who cared for our daughter and for the outpouring of love from around the world.”
Battling Guillain-Barré Syndrome Following 2024 Car Accident
Prior to her death, Ray had faced severe health challenges. She revealed that she was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder, following an unexpected car accident in April 2024. In a TikTok video posted at the time, she shared, “I’m paralyzed from the tops of my thighs to my toes and can’t walk at all,” describing her reliance on a wheelchair.
Guillain-Barré syndrome is an acute inflammatory condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system. Often triggered by a mild infection or physical trauma, muscle weakness and paralysis typically begin in the feet and lower legs before ascending toward the torso and arms.
Most individuals diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome gradually regain nerve function over a period ranging from six months to three years after onset. Approximately 85% of patients improve sufficiently to walk independently within six months.
