'Laguna Beach' Star Kristin Cavallari's Missing Brother Found Dead

Reality TV darling Kristin Cavallari's older brother, Michael Cavallari, has been found dead days after being reported missing. Michael was 30-years-old.

An officer with the Grand County sheriff's office told ET that Michael had been missing about 10 days. His case was listed as an active missing person investigation after his car was found abandoned 100 miles north of the shop where he was last seen in Monticello, Utah.

Two days before going missing, Michael was released from jail for making threats with a shotgun Nov. 23.

According to a source for People, Michael has a troubled past. The source says "there was always drama with him" but that Kristin was always "protective" of him. The source also said, "She was always trying to help him. He had been trying to produce reality shows a while ago, but it didn't work out."

Kristin, famous for hits like Laguna Beach and The Hills, issued a statement today confirming the news.

"We want to thank everyone for their love, support and prayers during this very difficult time. We have just been informed by the authorities my brother's body has been found. This is a very painful time and we are still processing it all. We kindly ask everyone please respect our privacy during our time of grieving."

Newly engaged Audrina Patridge, who also starred on The Hills with Kristin, told People that her "prayers go out to Kristin and her family."

Kristin is married to Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler. The two have three children, including a daughter who was born Nov. 23, the same day Michael was arrested.

She is also gearing up for the launch of her first book, Balancing in Heels: My Journey to Health, Happiness, and Making it all Work, which will be released March 15 of next year.