Heidi Montag’s Step Brother Dies in Freak Accident

The Hills star Heidi Montag usually tries to keep a smile on her face but that may be difficult after hearing tragic news that her step brother died in a freak accident while working in Colorado last week.

Montag's step brother, and veteran of the Army's 82^nd Airborne Division, Eric O'Hara, 24, passed away after falling from an icy roof while trying to clear the snow last Thursday.

Heidi Montag: Photo Credit: Rachel Worth/ WENNHer father Bill Montag married Eric's mom Terri, thus making Heidi and Eric step brother and sister. There's no word on how close Heidi was to her step brother, or if she's been informed of the tragic news.

Heidi's father had the following words to say about his stepson:

"The greatest thing about Eric was that he came out of Iraq with incredibly deep faith. We know where he is now."

Heidi is also a big believer in God. After her breakup with boyfriend Spencer Pratt, Heidi turned to the bible for support.

When asked about her relationship with former best friend Lauren Conrad, Heidi simple says that she prays for her.

We'll keep you updated as the story develops...

Update: Heidi released the following statement through her rep:

"Losing my brother, at an early age, is such a tragedy.

"I just loved him more than anything. He was just so patriotic. He really wanted to go to Iraq and help and do all that he could for his country. He felt like it was his duty. I'll really miss him."

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