The unexpected death of Emily Gold, an AGT contestant has sent shockwaves through her community and beyond. Details are still emerging about the heart-wrenching incident that led to her demise.
Emily Gold, a recent contestant on “America’s Got Talent” (AGT), has tragically passed away. The 17-year-old dancer from Los Osos High School died just a few weeks after captivating the nation with her performance on the popular show.
The San Bernardino Coroner’s Office confirmed that Gold was found dead by suicide on the night of Friday, September 13. The incident occurred at 11:52 p.m. along the eastbound 210 freeway in Rancho Cucamonga, California.
According to a statement from California Highway Patrol Public Information Officer Rodrigo Jimenez, officers responded to reports of a pedestrian down in the carpool lane.
“When the officers arrived, they located a female, 17 years old, who had been struck by at least one other vehicle in the carpool lane,” Jimenez said. “The female did succumb to her injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.”
The officer’s statement provided a clear yet devastating account of what had occurred that night, leaving many with more questions than answers. Gold’s final weeks were marked by a highlight in her young life.
She had the chance to perform on “AGT” alongside her Los Osos High School dance team. The Southern California group captured the nation’s attention with their high-energy routine, which propelled them to the show’s quarterfinals.
Although they were eliminated in August, their performance left a lasting impression on the audience and judges alike. Simon Cowell, one of AGT’s toughest critics, gave the team a standing ovation for their outstanding act.
The Los Osos High School dance team performing on AGT, dated August 15, 2024 | Source: Instagram/lohsvarsitydance
“It was absolutely brilliant,” Cowell remarked, praising the energy and talent displayed on stage. He even compared the performance to scenes from “High School Musical.” adding, “I think what I just saw is everything a great school should be doing, which is encouraging talent and friendship.”
Though they didn’t make it further in the competition, Gold and her teammates had left a memorable mark. In an interview with People magazine in mid-August, Gold shared her thoughts on her experience performing on the AGT stage.
The Los Osos High School dance team performing on AGT, dated August 15, 2024 | Source: Instagram/lohsvarsitydance
Despite the high-pressure environment, she emphasized her focus on perfecting every detail. Balancing school and a national TV appearance wasn’t easy for the young dancer, but she handled it with grace and perseverance.
When asked how she managed to juggle being a high school student with performing on “AGT,” Gold admitted, “It’s definitely tough to balance it all, but we make it happen.” Her words now carry an even deeper meaning, revealing the weight she carried during those challenging weeks.
The Los Osos High School dance team performing on AGT, dated August 15, 2024 | Source: Instagram/lohsvarsitydance
Following the heartbreaking news of Gold’s death, her family, friends, and community quickly came together to offer their support. Shortly after her passing, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to help ease the burden of expenses for her family during this difficult time.