Loved ones are mourning the heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Layla-Maria Grubb, a gifted dancer from Australia whose sudden passing has left her community devastated.
Grubb was found dead at her home on Saturday, July 19, just hours after being discharged from a hospital following a suspected seizure, according to the Daily Telegraph. Her family says they’re desperate for answers.
“We all want to know what happened. We are searching for answers,” her mother, Beth Ashton, told the outlet.
Layla-Maria had been studying dance at Village Nation, a prestigious company in Sydney. Its director, Briden Starr, described her as a “healthy, positive, focused girl,” the Daily Mail reported.
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In a moving tribute posted online, Ashton shared her grief and gratitude for the impact her daughter had on those around her.
“Layla-Maria brought so much joy, light, and love into the lives of everyone who knew her,” she wrote. “A gorgeous dancer, who moved through life with the same beauty and passion she brought to the stage. Her laughter, kindness, and beautiful spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”
“Though her time with us was far too short, her impact will remain in our hearts, forever 18. ❤️”
The JLC Dance Company, where Grubb previously trained in Western Australia before relocating to Sydney in 2023 to pursue her professional dreams, also paid tribute.
“Layla was on a trajectory to stardom and had immense potential,” the group wrote in a Facebook post. “She was an amazing student and friend, with a huge smile that lit up any room. This devastating news has affected the entire JLC family.”
Friends have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help give Layla-Maria the send-off she deserves.
“Layla was pure light — an amazing dancer with an infectious laugh,” they wrote. “The funniest, goofiest, most vibrant girl you could ever meet, lighting up every room with her laughter and fun.”
A funeral service will be held in Sydney on Friday, August 1.
New South Wales Police confirmed that the case has been referred to the coroner for further investigation.
“Due to the early stage of the matter, we cannot provide further detail at this time,” a spokesperson said.
Grubb’s family has asked for privacy and prayers as they grieve the unimaginable loss of a young life filled with promise and passion.
