Former Project Runway hair stylist George Ortiz has been found dead in his New York City apartment. He was 45.

Ortiz's sister, Iracely Toro, confirms to ET that her brother took his own life on Tuesday.

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"It's a tragic loss for our family. It is so surreal to know that he is no longer with us and sharing his infectious smile," she says. "I have comfort in knowing that he was loved by so many people both in the industry and not. He will forever be missed."

Ortiz appeared on Project Runway from 2006 to 2010. He also worked as a hair stylist for celebrities like Glenn Close, as well as for film and television projects.

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