Britney Spears is reportedly “devastated” over the death of a former boyfriend who was reportedly killed by the Taliban in Afghanistan.

John Sundahl, who dated the 33-year-old Britney Spears during some of her darkest days in 2007, lost his life at the age of 44 while flying a helicopter that was reportedly shot down by the Taliban in Kabul, Afghanistan.

John Sundahl was working as a private contractor transporting officials around Afghanistan at the time of his death.

Britney Spears, who is currently dating Charlie Ebersol, is said to be overwhelmed by his death because he was an integral part of her healing process after her meltdown in 2007.

“She is devastated. Britney thought he was a lovely man,” a source told UK newspaper The Mirror.

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The former couple met at an alcohol abuse support group, and the two bonded over their desire to overcome their addictions, creating a lasting friendship.

John Sundahl’s brother, Karl, told The Mirror that the two remained close over the years and believes Britney Spears must be in deep mourning over the loss of her dear friend.

“John was on a journey from Kabul when he was shot at and killed. We were told by the State that John had died, they told us the Taliban did it. This is just awful. My family are heartbroken, my parents are elderly so this is very tough for them, and all of us,” Karl told The Mirror.

“We know Britney’s upset too. John was still good friends with Britney, he talked to her regularly. They dated for a while but always kept in touch afterwards.”