Who is Sahara Ray? Model linked to Justin Bieber dies at 34, cause of death reportedly revealed

The Australian model and swimwear designer's death was confirmed by family who said she died surrounded by loved ones

Australian model and swimwear designer Sahara Ray, who gained international attention after being linked to pop star Justin Bieber, has died aged 34, according to reports published on October 19, 2026.

Ray’s family confirmed her death to TMZ, saying she passed away in hospital surrounded by loved ones. 

According to a report by the Daily Mail, Ray suffered a fentanyl overdose on Friday and was taken to a Los Angeles hospital, where she was placed on life support. Her family reportedly made the decision to withdraw life support on Sunday.

However, authorities have not officially confirmed the cause of death, and it remains unclear whether the reported overdose was accidental or deliberate.

Ray first attracted widespread attention in 2016, when she was photographed with Bieber during a holiday in Hawaii.

Although the photographs sparked speculation about their relationship, she also established a career in modelling and fashion.

Born in Australia, Ray spent part of her childhood in California and Hawaii. Her father, professional surfer Tony Ray, influenced her connection to surfing and beach culture.

She later studied at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles before launching her swimwear brand, Sahara Ray Swim.

Ray also built a substantial social media following, sharing modelling photographs, fashion designs and updates about her personal life.

In 2024, she revealed that she had been diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome following an accident in which she was reportedly struck by a vehicle.

The condition affected her mobility, leaving her temporarily dependent on a wheelchair as she documented her rehabilitation.

Ray’s mother, Gretchen Bach, also spoke about her daughter’s death in a statement to the Daily Mail, describing her as a passionate and kind young woman who loved her family, fashion, her daughter Snow and surfing.

Ray welcomed her daughter in January 2026. No confirmed information has established a link between her previous health condition and her death.