Geoffrey Shyam Stirling, the older brother of Real Housewives of Orange County star Lydia McLaughlin, was shot and killed by police during a traffic stop in California on Thursday night. The incident has left the McLaughlin family devastated.
Geoffrey, 45 years old, was riding his motorcycle on the Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach when police pulled him over. According to TMZ, the situation escalated after Geoffrey was reportedly uncooperative, leading to one of the officers firing a fatal shot.
Geoffrey Stirling Dies After Police Shooting
Police confirmed that the shooting occurred during a routine traffic stop and that no officers were injured. Geoffrey was taken to a local hospital, where he died shortly after arrival, as reported by multiple outlets.
The California Department of Justice has now launched an official investigation into the shooting, according to a statement from the California Attorney General’s Office.
Lydia McLaughlin Shares Her Grief
Lydia McLaughlin, 44, known for her appearance on The Real Housewives of Orange County, released a heartfelt statement to TMZ on Friday:
“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 took to Instagram, posting a comforting Bible verse:
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
She added in her caption:
“Because of the pain of Good Friday, we have the JOY of Easter Sunday.”
Her post received hundreds of messages of love and support from fans and friends.
Who Was Geoffrey Stirling?
Geoffrey Stirling was born in San Diego and grew up wanting to be in the entertainment industry, like his sister Lydia. He began modeling at the age of 16, after being scouted by a modeling agency.
His acting career included roles in shows like 30 Days of Night: Blood Trails (2007) and Vanquisher (2011). After stepping away from acting, Geoffrey worked in various fields, including:
- Personal training
- Karate instruction
- Television production
- Baking
- Stunt work
Lydia’s Life After Reality TV
Lydia joined The Real Housewives of Orange County during Season 8, but only stayed for one season. She later explained her decision to step away, saying she wanted to focus on her family and her brand, away from reality television.
Since then, Lydia has written a faith-based book titled Beyond Orange County, inspired by scripture and her Christian faith.