LONDON — On Saturday, Prince William shared his profound shock and sorrow regarding the tragic death of Edward Pettifer, who was killed in the New Year’s vehicle attack in New Orleans that claimed the lives of 14 individuals.

The Metropolitan Police in London confirmed on Saturday that they are assisting Pettifer’s family, including efforts to facilitate the repatriation of his body to the United Kingdom. Pettifer, 31, was originally from West London.

In a heartfelt statement on social media, the Prince of Wales, along with his wife Catherine, conveyed their grief, saying, “We 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.” Pettifer was the stepson of Tiggy Legge-Bourke, who served as nanny to William and his brother, Prince Harry, from 1993 to 1999, including the period following their mother Princess Diana’s passing in 1997. Legge-Bourke, also known as Alexandra Pettifer, was frequently seen in photographs alongside Diana.

British news outlets have reported that King Charles III is also deeply affected by the incident, having sent his condolences to Pettifer’s family.

Pettifer’s family expressed their devastation over his death, describing him as “a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew, and 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 UK’s Foreign Office stated that it is in communication with U.S. officials and providing support to Pettifer’s family.

Authorities have indicated that 14 individuals lost their lives and around 30 suffered injuries in the attack that occurred early Wednesday, perpetrated by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a former military member. Hours before the attack, Jabbar posted several videos on his Facebook account, announcing the violence he intended to carry out and expressing his allegiance to the Islamic State. The coroner’s report confirmed that the cause of death for all 14 victims was “blunt force injuries.” Jabbar was ultimately killed in a shootout with police at the scene of the devastating incident on Bourbon Street, a location renowned for its lively atmosphere in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter.