A man who competed for "Bachelorette" star Andi Dorfman's affection has died after a paragliding accident during which his parachute collapsed and he crashed into a hillside.
Chris Harrison, who hosts the reality show, took to Twitter to confirm the news and comment on the passing of contestant Eric Hill.
"On behalf of all of us at The Bachelor our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Eric Hill. He will be missed," Harrison wrote.
Hill's sister first announced his death via Facebook, writing: "Eric shared his final journey with us this morning as all his immediate family were able to be at his side when he passed away."
He died after being transported by helicopter to a Utah hospital and placed in a medically induced coma, Us Weekly reported. Utah's Unified Fire Authority Battalion Chief Brian Anderton spoke to the magazine about the accident.
"Due to the slope of the hill, we had a difficult time getting the patient down, so we called in a technical rescue team and some technical medical specialists," Anderton told the magazine prior to Hill's death.
"Bachelor" blogger Reality Steve, who is known for his spoilers about the show, reported that Hill was vying for Dorfman's affection in the upcoming season and was awarded the first one-on-one date with her, but had already been eliminated at the time of the accident.
The blogger was unable to provide any additional information to FOX411 when reached for comment.
"Bachelorette" contestant Brooks Forester opened up about Hill's passing to E! News.
"He lived more in 32 years than most people do in 100. He was always on an adventure, always looking to build memories and meet new friends along the way," Forester said. "I'll miss having the opportunity to go on those adventures with him."
Reps for ABC and Warner Bros. did not return FOX411's request for comment on Hill's death. The cast members for the upcoming "Bachelorette" season have yet to be announced.
Since contestants on the show are reportedly barred from having communication with the outside world during filming, it was not immediately clear if Dorfman had been notified about Hill's death.
The 10th season of "The Bachelorette" premieres on ABC on May 19.
Source : http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2014/04/23/bachelorette-contestant-in-critical-condition-after-parachute-accident-report/
