Lydia McLaughlin, formerly of “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” is grappling with profound grief following the sudden death of her brother, Geoffrey Shyam Stirling.
On Friday, authorities confirmed that Mr. Stirling, 45, succumbed to injuries sustained during an incident involving police officers in Newport Beach, California. The tragic event occurred on Thursday evening, as detailed in a statement released by the city’s Police Department via X (formerly Twitter).
“We are profoundly saddened by this devastating loss,” stated McLaughlin, 44, in a prepared statement shared with People magazine. “The outpouring of support from our family, friends, and community means everything to us during this incredibly difficult time. We respectfully request privacy as we navigate this profound sorrow.”
Attempts by Fox News Digital to obtain comment from McLaughlin were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
Scott Stirling, Geoffrey’s father and President & CEO of Newfoundland Broadcasting Company in Canada, also issued a heartfelt tribute. “Geoffrey was a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend,” he shared with People. “He led a multifaceted life, pursuing careers as a television producer, screenwriter, actor, and model. Geoffrey’s faith was central to his being; he regularly attended church and dedicated himself to numerous charitable causes. The void left by his absence is immense.”
According to the Newport Beach Police Department’s account of the events, Mr. Stirling was stopped on Pacific Coast Highway around 9:15 PM while riding his motorcycle for an alleged traffic infraction. “Following the initial stop, Mr. Stirling became argumentative and physically attacked a police officer,” the statement outlined. “During this volatile confrontation, he successfully seized the officer’s taser and attempted to deploy it repeatedly against the officer. Consequently, an officer-involved shooting occurred.”
“Responding officers immediately provided medical assistance while awaiting the arrival of Newport Beach Fire Department personnel,” the report continued. Mr. Stirling was transported to a local hospital where he was ultimately pronounced dead.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Police Department notified the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and requested an independent investigation. “In accordance with state regulations, the DOJ’s Special Prosecutions Section will conduct a thorough review of this incident,” the department stated. “This remains an active and ongoing investigation.”
McLaughlin’s career highlights include her participation in “RHOC” seasons eight (2013) and twelve (2017). Notably, in October 2024, she announced the passing of her mother, Judy Stirling, after a protracted battle with breast cancer. The family also includes a son, Jesse Stirling, age 53.
On Saturday, McLaughlin shared a poignant tribute to Geoffrey on her Instagram account. A photograph of Mr. Stirling accompanied the following message:
““My family is reeling from this unimaginable loss. My brother, Geoff, was tragically taken from us, and our hearts are broken,” she wrote. “This song – ‘Birds of a Feather’ by Billie Eilish – was one he turned to after we lost Mom. He would cry every time listening to it. It’s unbelievable that just six months after losing my best friend and mother, we’re now facing this pain. I find comfort knowing they are both with Jesus, walking alongside me through the darkness, one step at a time.”
