Cristina Perez Galcenco, a 21-year-old international catwalk model, was found dead on Tuesday at her home in Caleta de Velez, near Malaga.
Cristina, born in Lanzarote, began her modelling career at 14 and worked in major fashion cities including London, Madrid, Milan and Paris. She took part in events such as Madrid Fashion Week and featured in campaigns for brands including Stradivarius. She also presented collections for luxury labels such as Versace and Louis Vuitton.
Authorities have said her death is not being treated as suspicious. Her body is expected to be transferred to Asturias, in northern Spain, where she grew up. Funeral arrangements are expected in the coming days.
Cristina was the daughter of Nacho Pérez, a former top Spanish goalkeeper known for his time with Sporting de Gijón in the 1970s.
Tributes have been paid by colleagues and friends. Photographer Xana de Jesus said Cristina “was and always will be a role model and an example to follow, both in her modelling career and as a person.” Friends described her as “an angel” and expressed their sorrow over her passing.
In a recent interview, Cristina spoke about the challenges of modelling, including the loneliness of constant travel, and reflected on personal growth through her career. At the time of her death, she was attending a course in Malaga.