Former “The Real Housewives of Orange County” star Lydia McLaughlin is mourning the devastating loss of her brother, Geoffrey Shyam Stirling, who was fatally shot by a police officer during a traffic stop in Newport Beach, California. Stirling, 45, died Thursday night after an alleged altercation with the officer. According to a press release from the Newport Beach Police Department, Stirling was pulled over for a traffic violation around 9:15 pm. The police report states that Stirling became uncooperative, assaulted the officer, and attempted to use the officer’s taser. An officer-involved shooting subsequently occurred.
McLaughlin released a statement to People magazine expressing her family’s devastation and asking for privacy during this difficult time. Her father, Scott Stirling, also shared a statement, describing Geoffrey as a loving son, brother, and friend with a successful career in television production, script writing, acting, and modeling. He also highlighted Geoffrey’s active participation in church and charitable work.
The Newport Beach Police Department has confirmed that the California Department of Justice is conducting an independent investigation into the incident, in accordance with state law. The findings will be reviewed by the DOJ’s Special Prosecutions Section. This incident remains an active investigation.
McLaughlin, 44, was a main cast member on “RHOC” during its eighth season in 2013 and returned for the 12th season in 2017. This tragic event comes just six months after the loss of her mother, Judy Stirling, to breast cancer. McLaughlin shared a heartfelt tribute to her brother on Instagram, revealing that he often listened to Billie Eilish’s song “Birds of a Feather” while grieving their mother’s death. She expressed her profound grief and faith in finding strength through her faith during this time of immense sorrow.
The loss of Geoffrey Stirling is a profound tragedy for the McLaughlin family and the wider community. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the family during their time of mourning and seeking answers about the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event.
