of Orange County star Lydia McLaughlin is reeling from the tragic loss of her brother, who was shot dead by a police officer this week.
During a routine traffic stop in California, Lydia's brother, 45-year-old Geoffrey Shyam Stirling, met a tragic end at the hands of law enforcement. The incident took place on Thursday night as Geoffrey was pulled over while cruising on his down the iconic Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach.
The personality confirmed the heartbreaking news, saying that her family was utterly 'devastated' by the sudden and violent death of her brother Geoffrey. No cops were injured during the traffic stop, but her brother was still shot dead.
READ MORE:
READ MORE:
According to reports, things escalated when Geoffrey supposedly became "uncooperative", leading to a confrontation with the police and resulting in him being fatally shot by an officer. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, TMZ reports that he succumbed to his injuries shortly upon arrival.
The police department confirmed that no officers were harmed during this incident and admitted that the California Attorney General's Office has directed the California Department of Justice to conduct a thorough investigation into the shooting.
A day later, 44-year-old Lydia shared her sorrow with TMZ on Friday, expressing just how much this tragedy has affected her loved ones. She said: "My family and I are devastated by the loss of my brother.
"We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and the community. We kindly ask for privacy as we mourn."
Not long after releasing her statement, Lydia took to to thank Jesus Christ for helping her through the difficult time, adding: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
Accompanying the quote was her own choice of words: "Because of the pain of Good Friday, we have the JOY of Easter Sunday."
Condolences have been pouring in for Lydia, a former star of Real Housewives, after her brother's passing. Fans and friends have reached out to comfort her. One heartbroken supporter wrote: "Lydia, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your brother! My heart hurts for you and your family. Peace be with you."
Another fan expressed their love, commenting: "Oh Lydia, I love you so much. Sending prayers." Another said: "Lydia, I am so incredibly heartbroken to hear about your brother. Lifting you and your family up in prayer."
Geoffrey, Lydia's brother, also had his moment in the spotlight. Hailing from San Diego, he shared a love for performance with Lydia, embarking on a modelling career at 16 when a talent agency snapped him up.
According to his IMDB page, Geoffrey showcased his acting chops in several gigs, including parts in '30 Days Of Night: Blood Trails' (2007) and 'Vanquisher' (2011).
Beyond acting, he wore many hats: from personal training to teaching karate, producing TV, baking, and performing stunts. Lydia herself, originally part of the Real Housewives cast for just one season, decided to exit the show and cultivate her brand independently of the ‘the Housewives’ label.
She has since drawn on scripture and her faith in Jesus Christ to author a book called 'Beyond Orange County'.
