Australian model and swimwear designer Sahara Ray, who was romantically linked to Justin Bieber in 2016, has died aged 34, months after welcoming her first child. Her family confirmed that she passed away at the hospital surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, 18 October 2026.
Ray's death was announced on Monday, 19 October, prompting tributes from friends and fans. Her family said: 'She passed away last night surrounded by family at the hospital. She was so loved'. Her death comes two years after she revealed that a serious car accident had left her partially paralysed when she developed Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Although a subsequent report alleged that Ray suffered a fentanyl overdose, her official cause of death has not been confirmed. There is also no confirmed evidence linking her previous health condition to her death.
Sahara Ray's Paralysis Battle After Car Crash
Ray publicly discussed her health struggles in 2024 after being hit by a car on 8 April. She said the incident was followed by severe illness and a diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare neurological condition in which the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves.
In a TikTok video reported by an Australian news outlet, Ray described the extent of her paralysis, saying: 'Right now I'm paralysed from the tops of my upper thighs all the way down to my feet. I can't walk at all'.
She also explained that her condition developed after her body went into shock and she became extremely ill. The model said she struggled to keep food down and experienced significant weakness before the symptoms affected her legs.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Guillain-Barré syndrome can cause weakness, numbness and, in severe cases, paralysis. The condition can affect people differently, and recovery may require prolonged rehabilitation.
Ray's account offered followers a glimpse into the physical and emotional challenges she faced. She also shared updates about her recovery, expressing hope that she would regain movement. However, no official information has established a connection between her earlier diagnosis and her death.
Model Welcomed Daughter Snow in January
Ray became a mother in January 2026, welcoming her daughter, Snow, just months before her death. She shared moments from her pregnancy and early motherhood on social media, giving followers a personal look at this new chapter in her life. Before giving birth, she posted about preparing for her delivery, writing: 'Wish me luck. I get induced today at 8 p.m. So excited, so nervous'.
In April, Ray introduced Snow to her Instagram followers with a video of the pair spending time together. The post featured Bieber's song 'Everything Hallelujah', accompanied by the caption 'Baby snow hallelujah'.
Her final Instagram post, shared in July, featured photographs of her daughter. 'My whole heart 🤍 baby Snow', she wrote. The post has since drawn renewed attention following news of Ray's death, with followers revisiting the photographs and messages she shared about her daughter.
Friends and Family Pay Tribute
Ray's mother, Gretchen Bach, remembered her daughter in a statement, describing her as 'an incredibly passionate and kind young woman who loved her family, fashion, her daughter Snow, and surfing'.
Bach also expressed gratitude for the support shown by Ray's friends, fans and the wider communities she had been part of.
Her friend Becky Hearn shared throwback photographs of the pair on Instagram, paying tribute to Ray's character. 'Sahara, a pure one with a very big heart', she wrote. 'My heart is broken for you and your family. Rest in peace'.
Sahara Ray's Connection to Justin Bieber
Ray became widely known in 2016 when she was romantically linked to Bieber. The pair were photographed together during a trip to Hawaii, attracting considerable attention online and in entertainment media. In 2023, she was also linked to musician Mod Sun after they appeared together in a social media post.
Beyond the relationship rumours, Ray established herself as a model and entrepreneur, launching her swimwear label, Sahara Ray Swim. She also built a substantial social media following through fashion, lifestyle and personal updates.
Ray's death has prompted renewed interest in her career and personal life, particularly her recent experience of motherhood and the health challenges she had shared publicly. She is remembered by friends and family for her passion for fashion, surfing and the people closest to her.
Her family has confirmed her death, but an official cause has yet to be announced. The reported overdose remains unconfirmed, and further details have not been established publicly.
