Emily Gold, a 17-year-old cheerleader from *America’s Got Talent*, has passed away. “It is with such a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beautiful, kind and loving Emily Gold,” her high school dance team wrote via Instagram on September 16. Gold, who was a senior and Varsity Dance Captain at Los Osos High School, was described as a leader and role model by her teammates.

Gold and her team recently appeared on *America’s Got Talent*, making it to the quarterfinals before being eliminated. Judge Simon Cowell gave the team a standing ovation, calling their performance “absolutely brilliant.” He praised the group for their energy and said it reminded him of *High School Musical*.

Friends and family have paid tribute to Gold, with one person sharing, “She will be missed dearly. May she rest in peace.”

The San Bernardino Coroner’s Office confirmed that Gold died by suicide. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support her family, raising $25,000 so far.