In a shocking event that has reverberated from New Orleans to the United Kingdom, Prince William expressed profound grief over the death of 31-year-old Edward Pettifer, his former nanny’s stepson, in a devastating New Year’s attack.
London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed their ongoing support for Pettifer’s family, aiding them through the repatriation of his body back to the UK. Edward Pettifer, a West London native, was tragically killed in a brutal truck attack that claimed 14 lives.
On social media, Prince William, alongside his wife Catherine, shared their heartfelt condolences, stating they were “shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Ed Pettifer. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Pettifer family and all those innocent people who have been tragically impacted by this horrific attack.”
Pettifer was the stepson of Tiggy Legge-Bourke, who served as a nanny to Prince William and his brother Prince Harry from 1993 to 1999. This period included the tumultuous aftermath of Princess Diana’s death in 1997. Legge-Bourke, also known by her former name Alexandra Pettifer, was frequently photographed with Princess Diana during that era.
Reports indicate that King Charles III, too, has been deeply affected by Pettifer’s untimely death, extending his own condolences to the grieving family.
In a collective statement, Pettifer’s family conveyed their devastation, remembering Ed as “a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to so many.” They further extended their sympathies to other families enduring losses from this catastrophic event.
The attack involved Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a former Army soldier, who unleashed violence in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter, killing 14 and injuring approximately 30 others. Jabbar had broadcasted disturbing videos pledging allegiance to the Islamic State prior to the attack. He was eventually shot and killed during a confrontation with police on Bourbon Street.
The U.K.’s Foreign Office has reiterated its commitment to assisting Pettifer’s family while maintaining communication with U.S. authorities as investigations continue. The coroner’s office attributed the victims’ deaths to “blunt force injuries.”
The tragic events in New Orleans have elicited a wave of sorrow and support from across the Atlantic, underscoring the deep connections and mutual empathy between the affected families. The royal family’s personal connection to the Pettifer family highlights the widespread impact of this senseless violence, as they join in grieving the loss of a beloved family member and friend.
Source: Wsvn
