Chris Harrison Responds to ‘Bachelor in Paradise’ Controversy

After Bachelor in Paradise was shut down after an incident involving contestants DeMario Jackson and Corrine Olympios, the future of the show is currently unknown and an investigation has been launched into what has been reported as a sexual encounter lacking consent from one party.

In response, the show’s host, Chris Harrison, has released a statement, urging fans to be patient as the incident is resolved and assuring them that what the production company called a “misconduct” is being fully investigated.

“By now, no doubt, you have heard that we have suspended production on this season’s Bachelor in Paradise,” begins Harrison’s statement, obtained by PEOPLE. “I can confirm to you that this is sadly the case. Out of respect to all involved, there’s only so much I can and will say at this time. Normally with a situation like this I would not say anything until the incident is fully resolved, but with all the rumors and misinformation being put out there, I don’t find that to be possible anymore.”

“Let me start by saying the safety and care of the cast and crew of our show is of the utmost importance to us. It is with this thought in mind that we made the decision to suspend filming. An investigation into the situation was started immediately,” he continued. “Warner Bros. is handling the details of that investigation. They’re moving quickly to gather all the facts, and once that’s done, a clear, concise decision can be made about where we go from here.”

“There are a lot of competing details in the various press accounts of the incident. And there’s a lot of misinformation out there too. We urge everyone to be patient until the investigation is complete.”

“I know in this day and age we want — and even expect — immediate answers, but in this case, it’s just not possible,” Harrison concluded. “So again, I urge you to please be patient and respect the privacy of the parties involved. I will keep you as informed and up to date as I possibly can. We’re sorry for any inconvenience and disappointment this may have caused the cast, the crew and our loyal fans. It is my sincere hope that we can come to a quick resolution on this and get back to work very soon.”

In a statement Sunday, Warner Bros. said it was investigating the incident, which resulted in suspended production of the show.

“We have become aware of allegations of misconduct on the set of Bachelor in Paradise in Mexico,” read the statement, obtained by PEOPLE. “We have suspended production and we are conducting a thorough investigation of these allegations. Once the investigation is complete, we will take appropriate responsive action.”

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