Tyra Banks has paid tribute to a former America'S Next Top Model contestant who was found dead on Tuesday (24Feb15).

The body of Mirjana Puhar, 19, was discovered at her boyfriend's home in North Carolina. Police found the bodies of three people, including Puhar and her boyfriend, in the property after neighbours reported gunshots.

Puhar was a contestant on Banks' reality TV show last year (14), and the host has now issued a joint statement with executive producer Ken Mok to express her grief.

It reads, "We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic news about Mirjana Puhar. She was a vivacious and promising young woman... Our hearts and prayers go out to her loved ones."

Banks later added on Twitter.com, "We love you, Mirjana... Forever."