The Real Housewives of Orange County star Lydia McLaughlin has shared her devastation following the tragic death of her brother at the hands of law enforcement on Thursday.

45-year-old Geoffrey Shyam Stirling met a fatal end when police shot him during a routine traffic stop in California on Thursday evening. The reality TV celebrity, Lydia, has confirmed with profound sadness that Geoffrey's untimely demise came as he was riding his motorcycle on Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach.

Police have said that Geoffrey was "uncooperative" with the officers, leading to a confrontation where he suffered a deadly gunshot. However, raising questions about the use of lethal force, no police officers were injured during the deadly altercation.

He succumbed to his injuries shortly after being admitted to a local hospital, according to TMZ. In response to the tragic incident, law enforcement authorities have confirmed that the officers involved remained unharmed, and the California Attorney General's Office has directed the California Department of Justice to investigate the matter further.

One year her brother's junior, 44-year-old Lydia was grief-stricken when speaking to TMZ a day later on Friday. She stated: "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."

Later, Lydia turned to Instagram issuing a poignant message, posting a quote about Jesus Christ: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

This was accompanied by her own caption: "Because of the pain of Good Friday, we have the JOY of Easter Sunday."

Upon hearing the news, friends and fans swiftly rallied around Lydia to offer their condolences , reports the Mirror. One supporter expressed: "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 said: "Oh Lydia, I love you so much. Sending prayers." A third well-wisher added: "Lydia, I am so incredibly heartbroken to hear about your brother. Lifting you and your family up in prayer."

A native of San Diego, Geoffrey shared his sister's passion for the limelight, kick-starting his modelling career at the tender age of 16 after being discovered by a talent agency. His profile on IMDB highlights his acting credits in TV projects, including 30 Days Of Night: Blood Trails (2007) and Vanquisher (2011).

Geoffrey's diverse career spanned multiple roles, encompassing work as a personal trainer, karate instructor, television producer, baker, and stuntman. Meanwhile, Lydia starred in just one season of Real Housewives before deciding to focus on building her personal brand beyond the show.

Since then, she has authored a book centred on scripture and faith in Jesus Christ, titled Beyond Orange County.