Toddlers and Tiaras star Kailia Posey dies aged 16, mum confirms in heartbreaking statement

Kailia Posey, who starred in US reality television show Toddlers and Tiaras, has tragically died aged 16.

Kailia’s mum, Marcy Posey Gatterman, announced the tragic news on her Facebook account.

Alongside a picture of Kailia, she wrote: "I don't have words or any thoughts.

“A beautiful baby girl is gone.

"Please give us privacy as we mourn the loss of Kailia. My baby forever."

She did not reveal a cause of death.

Tributes have already poured in on social media, including from a pageant coach who worked with her.

They wrote: “I have experienced alot of loss in my life, but this one stings differently. Kailia was one the funnest and funniest young ladies that I have ever worked with in my coaching career.

“We just exchanged some fun messages recently and she seemed up in spirits. She had such an open care free spirit that had to caught fire everywhere that she went."

While America's Got Talent star Kadan Bart Rockett added: "Can’t even believe this has happened. I’m praying for you guys to get through this. She always was so kind to all of us. Rest In Peace.