Real Housewives of O.C. Alum Lydia McLaughlin Mourns Tragic Death of Brother Shot by Police

By Justin Heath

Lydia McLaughlin, a former star of The Real Housewives of Orange County (RHOC), is grappling with profound grief following the death of her brother, Geoffrey Shyam Stirling, who was fatally shot by Newport Beach police on April 17, 2025. The 45-year-old was killed during a traffic stop, an incident that has left McLaughlin and her family devastated, especially as it comes just six months after the loss of their mother, Judy Stirling, to breast cancer in October 2024.

McLaughlin, who appeared on RHOC during its eighth and twelfth seasons, confirmed the tragic news in a statement to People magazine, saying, “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.” She later shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, writing, “My brother, Geoff, was tragically taken and our hearts are shattered,” adding that she finds solace in her faith, believing both her brother and mother are “with Jesus now.”

The incident occurred around 9:15 p.m. on Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach, California, when Geoffrey, a motorcyclist, was pulled over for an undisclosed traffic violation. According to the Newport Beach Police Department, Stirling became “uncooperative” during the stop, allegedly assaulted an officer, and attempted to use the officer’s Taser against him. At that point, an officer opened fire, and Stirling was shot. He was treated at the scene before being transported to Hoag Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. No officers were injured in the confrontation.

Geoffrey Shyam Stirling, a resident of Laguna Niguel, was a model, actor, and producer, and the son of Scott Stirling, president and CEO of Newfoundland Broadcasting Company Ltd. He had a diverse career, including roles as a personal trainer, karate instructor, television producer, baker, and stuntman. Court records also reveal Stirling was facing a felony arson charge from an incident on March 21, 2025, and was due in court for an arraignment on April 21, the day before McLaughlin’s public statement.

The California Department of Justice is investigating the shooting, as mandated by state law for officer-involved fatalities. Attorney General Rob Bonta confirmed the inquiry, noting that the findings will be reviewed independently by the DOJ’s Special Prosecutions Section. Under California law, body camera footage of the incident must be released to the public within 45 days. Authorities have encouraged anyone with information to contact (916) 210-2871.

McLaughlin’s former RHOC co-star Vicki Gunvalson was among those offering condolences, commenting on Instagram, “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.” The tragedy has sparked discussions on police use of force, with some posts on X reflecting divided sentiments—some expressing sympathy for McLaughlin’s loss, while others support the officer’s actions, citing Stirling’s alleged aggression.

For McLaughlin, the pain is compounded by the recent loss of her mother. In an Instagram post earlier this month, she marked the six-month anniversary of Judy Stirling’s passing, sharing, “I can’t believe we’re facing this pain just 6 months after losing my best friend and mother.” Despite the grief, McLaughlin has leaned on her faith and community support, recommending Grief Share, a nationwide support group, to others facing loss.

As the investigation unfolds, McLaughlin and her family— including her father Scott, brother Jesse, husband Doug, and children Stirling (16), Maverick (14), and Roman (10)—continue to mourn Geoffrey’s death, holding onto his memory and the love he left behind.

Justin Heath

Justin Heath is a  freelance writer for Veritas Expositae

You can reach him at justin.heath@veritasexpositae.com