The reality television community is in shock today over reports that a production facilitator and his assistant were found poisoned in Uganda. Jeff Rice may not have been a household name in the States, but within the industry, he was known for arriving weeks ahead of African productions to get all of the details worked out with local authorities. He lent his talents to the current season of Amazing Race that debuted this past Sunday, as well as past seasons of Whale Wars and South Africa’s Biggest Loser. It’s unclear what exactly brought him to Uganda, but his production company Maverick Entertainment did lots of work throughout Africa for a wide variety of commercials, television shows and movie productions.

The specifics of what happened are still very fuzzy, but Rice’s widow Sally Blackman told Fox News that all signs point to poisoning. Another source told the outlet the pair were reportedly confronted by local thugs looking for money. When Rice and his assistant refused to pay, they were probably poisoned. The female production worker has not been publicly identified, but she remains in a coma.

With the investigation still ongoing, it’s unlikely we’ll get any more details in the short term. The whole process may take months. Pop Blend’s thoughts go out to Rice’s widow, as well as his two young children and the unnamed woman’s entire family. Both victims spent their professional lives trying to showcase Africa’s rich culture and natural beauty. Their efforts will live on through this season of Amazing Race, as well as all future African productions.