Gia Allemand’s death was caused by an apparent suicide attempt, according to her family.
Just minutes after it was confirmed by E! News and others that the former Bachelor contestant had died after being hospitalized Monday for a “serious emergency medical event,” her family released a statement saying that her hospitalization and death were the result of a suicide attempt .
More details about Gia Allemand’s death were also revealed in the statement. For instance, she died after her family chose to remove her from life support.
“Due to a critical loss of brain and organ function, life support was withdrawn today. Ms. Allemand passed away peacefully with her mother, boyfriend, and other lifelong friends by her side. As a practicing Christian, Gia did receive the sacrament of last rites,” the statement read .
Just a few days ago, the reality star seemed happy and healthy, tweeting a Bible verse and sharing a photo on Instagram. She was discovered Monday night by longtime boyfriend and NBA basketball player Ryan Anderson, and immediately rushed to a New Orleans hospital.
The family’s statement continued:
“Loved ones and fans will remember Gia Allemand as a caring woman who loved her family and was well-known for her compassion towards animals and mission to rescue homeless pets.”
“Funeral arrangements will be forthcoming in another official statement once available. On behalf of the family, we sincerely ask for privacy at this time.”
Other Bachelor alums tweeted their shock, disbelief and sadness over Allemand’s tragic death, including Jake Pavelka, whose heart she competed for on the 14th season of the show.
I had to pull over, I can’t stop crying. We have lost an angel.
— Jake Pavelka (@jakepavelka1) August 14, 2013
From others in the Bachelor family:
Sad day today. We lost one of our favorite bachelor friends and family. Thoughts and prayers go out… http://t.co/q9pr7T1bvb
— David Levi Good (@DaveLGood) August 14, 2013
My heart is so heavy right now, I remember meeting you for the first time & the huge smile on your face. You are in my prayers @GiaAllemand
— Jason Mesnick (@jason_mesnick) August 14, 2013
Sad to hear @GiaAllemand passing. Thoughts & prayers go out to loved ones, family members, & all that were close to her. God got an angel.
— DeAnna Stagliano (@DeAnnaPappas) August 14, 2013
We’ll continue to update on Gia Allemand’s death as more information comes out. Are you surprised that she died of a suicide attempt?
