Gia Allemand, 'The Bachelor' Star, Dies at 29 of Apparent Suicide[VIDEO]

Gia Allemand, one of the stars of The Bachelor, has died at the age of 29.

PEOPLE confirmed Allemand's passing Wednesday . Her death came after she was transported to University Hospital in New Orleans "following a serious emergency medical event" as described by ABC. Her situation became so dire that she was placed on life support. A source said that she died Wednesday. A statement was released by Allemand's family.

"Due to a critical loss of brain and organ function, life support was withdrawn" the statement read. "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."

"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."

Vienna Girardi, who also appeared on The Bachelor, tweeted her condolences. She and Allemand were competing for the affections of Jake Pavelka in 2010.

Gia you are my angel! You changed so many lives with your beautiful soul and will be missed and loved forever.

— Vienna Girardi (@ViennaGirardi) August 14, 2013

Pavelka also reflected on her death via Twitter.

And a very dear friend. My heart goes out to her family during this very difficult time. We have lost angel today. I miss you Gia...