Featured Image Credit: Facebook
Topics: Social Media, Celebrity, News
Callum Jones
Raechelle Chase - a popular fitness influencer from New Zealand - has sadly passed away.
The influencer's oldest daughter, Anna Chase, confirmed the devastating news in a touching statement.
"She was supportive, kind-hearted and always had the best advice for us," she wrote.
"She was a wildly driven woman with ambition and has inspired millions of people around the world. I miss her immensely and that love won’t ever fade."
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Many have expressed their shock at the tragic news, with Chase's friend Keith O‘Connell leading the tributes.
He expressed his shock and sadness of Chase's sudden passing, while praising her kindness.
"Not going to lie, very few things in my life hit me as hard as your passing... You had so much left to live. So much love to give," he wrote.
"You were, still are, and always will be one of the kindest beautiful souls I will ever have experienced."
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Chase's cause of death has not been revealed as of yet, with an investigation ongoing.
Chase had more than 1.4 million followers on Facebook and was often praised by her fans for inspiring videos to help many get into fitness.
Her social media accounts were full of workout tips and inspirational quotes, and she also featured on 14 fitness magazine covers.
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Back in 2011, the influencer competed in the Olympia bodybuilding event in Las Vegas, becoming the first New Zealander to do so.
Chase had five children and was married to her husband Chris Chase for 14 years before their separation in February 2015.
Chris was later jailed for ten years due to his involvement in distributing a drug that is said to be similar to MDMA.
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A year after the split, Chase opened up about her life with Chris, detailing her 'toxic' post-divorce relationship with her ex-husband.
Writing for Stuff, Chase said: "If you know you are in an abusive relationship and you don’t have the courage to leave, do it for your children.
"Grab hold of whatever you need long enough to survive crawling out of that hole because I promise you it will be worth it."