Lucy Markovic, a beloved former contestant of Australia’s Next Top Model and an international fashion model, has passed away at the age of 27. Her partner shared the heartbreaking news via her Instagram Story on Friday, confirming she was surrounded by loved ones in her final moments.

“Dear friends and family, I regret to inform you that Lucy has passed,” the message read. “She was at peace. Me, her mother and my mother were present with her. We ask you to please give us space in these hard times. May Lucy rest in peace.”

Lucy had been fighting a severe medical condition—an arteriovenous malformation (AVM), a rare and potentially life-threatening tangle of blood vessels in the brain. Earlier this week, she was placed in a coma following emergency brain surgery. Hours before her passing, her partner had shared a desperate plea for prayers as she continued battling for her life.

The modeling community is mourning deeply. Her agency, Elite Model Management NYC, remembered Lucy for her radiant spirit and fearless determination.

“Lucy was a bright shining light,” their statement said. “Her smile and laughter could light up a room. She loved to dance, she really shined. She brought elegance, strength, and beauty to her work—but more than that, she brought herself.”

Lucy’s modeling career took flight after she placed as the runner-up on Australia’s Next Top Model in 2015, when she was just 17. Her stunning presence on the runway soon earned her spots with major fashion houses including Versace, Givenchy, Dion Lee, Ksubi, and Sass & Bide.

Donatella Versace paid tribute with a touching post on Instagram:

“I am so sorry to hear the news about @lucymarkovicc. Rest in peace, beautiful girl.”

Social media has been flooded with tributes, including a heartfelt message from YouTuber Cartia Mallan, who called Lucy “amazingly beautiful and talented.”

“Heartbroken to say the least. I can’t even put into words how kind, radiant and caring she was,” she shared. “Deeply blessed to have known her. Rest in peace my angel girl.”

Just last month, Lucy had revealed on Instagram that she was preparing for brain surgery following seizures and several rounds of radiation. She wrote openly about her condition and emotions:

“Lucky + unlucky – Radiation, seizures, heavy medication and 4 years later,” she posted. “I will be undergoing brain surgery… The AVM in the back of my brain is the size of a golf ball.”

Despite the severity of her diagnosis, Lucy remained hopeful, writing, “Life’s a journey and I’m ready for the next chapter.”Lucy Markovic’s courage, elegance, and vibrant personality touched the lives of many. She leaves behind a legacy of strength and light, and her memory will continue to inspire in the fashion world and beyond.