Beauty pageant organizers were investigating who doused a contestant’s evening gowns with pepper spray and spiked her makeup, causing her to break out in hives.

Beauty queen Ingrid Marie Rivera beat 29 rivals to become Puerto Rico’s 2008 Miss Universe contestant, despite applying makeup and wearing evening gowns that had been coated with pepper spray, pageant spokesman Harold Rosario said.

Rivera remained composed while appearing before cameras and judges throughout the competition.  But once backstage, she had to strip off her clothes and apply ice bags to her face and body, which swelled and broke out in hives.

Rivera’s clothing and makeup tested positive for pepper spray.   Someone also stole Rivera’s bag containing her gowns, makeup and credit cards. And a bomb threat forced pageant officials to postpone the last day of competition.

Pageant organizers said they hoped to catch and expose whoever was responsible. They said, however, they were handling the investigation themselves and police are not involved.  Hmmmm now why would that be?

Rivera, who won Miss World Caribbean in 2005, had been a target of controversy from the start of competition, as rivals complained she was too experienced and should be disqualified.  Local press touted her as the likely winner, stoking jealousy among contestants. 

Technorati Tags: Ingrid Marie Rivera, Puerto Rico,  Miss Universe, pepper spray

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