Prince William shared his profound shock and sadness Saturday following the tragic death of Edward Pettifer, the stepson of his former nanny, in the horrific New Year’s truck attack in New Orleans that claimed 14 lives.
London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed they are assisting Pettifer’s family, including facilitating the repatriation of his body to the U.K. Pettifer, a 31-year-old from west London, was the final victim identified in the attack.
In a heartfelt statement on social media, the Prince of Wales said, “Catherine and I are 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.”
A Deep Family Connection
Pettifer was the stepson of Tiggy Legge-Bourke, who served as nanny to both Prince William and Prince Harry from 1993 to 1999, including during the difficult period after the death of Princess Diana. Known affectionately as “Tiggy,” Legge-Bourke played a significant role in the princes’ early lives and was often seen with the late Princess Diana.
Reports from British media indicate that King Charles III is also deeply saddened by Pettifer’s death and has sent condolences to the family.
Family’s Heartbreaking Tribute
In a statement, Pettifer’s grieving family described him as “a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew, and a friend to so many.” They added, “We will all miss him terribly. Our thoughts are with the other families who have lost their loved ones due to this terrible attack.”
The U.K.’s Foreign Office confirmed its ongoing support for Pettifer’s family and collaboration with U.S. authorities.
A City Shaken by Tragedy
The attack, carried out by 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, shocked the world. Jabbar, a former Army soldier, drove a truck into a crowded Bourbon Street in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter, killing 14 and injuring approximately 30 others. Hours before the attack, Jabbar posted disturbing videos on social media proclaiming his allegiance to the Islamic State militant group and previewing the violence.
Jabbar was killed in a firefight with police at the scene, but the devastation he left behind continues to ripple through families and communities. The coroner’s office determined that all victims died from blunt force injuries.
Royal Condolences Amid Global Grief
As New Orleans grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, the Pettifer family’s loss resonates deeply in the U.K. The close ties between Edward Pettifer’s family and the royal household have brought additional attention to this heartbreaking story, highlighting the far-reaching impacts of a senseless act of violence.
