Edward Pettifer, 31, was among the 14 victims of a horrific vehicle attack in New Orleans, prompting condolences from Prince William and King Charles, who were connected through Pettifer's stepmother, a former nanny to the royal family.
Prince William Expresses Heartfelt Condolences Following Nanny's Stepson's Tragic Death in New Orleans Attack
Prince William Expresses Heartfelt Condolences Following Nanny's Stepson's Tragic Death in New Orleans Attack
The Prince of Wales shares his shock and sadness over the death of Edward Pettifer, a victim of the recent violent incident in New Orleans.
The Prince of Wales has expressed his deep sorrow following the death of Edward Pettifer, the stepson of his former nanny, in a tragic attack that occurred in New Orleans on New Year's Day. Edward Pettifer was identified by the Metropolitan Police as a British national among the 14 people who lost their lives during the horrific incident.
The attack, carried out by a 42-year-old US Army veteran, involved a pick-up truck that drove through crowds on Bourbon Street, a popular tourist destination. Police engaged the suspect, resulting in his death. The preliminary autopsy indicated that Pettifer's cause of death was due to "blunt force injuries."
Prince William, along with Catherine, expressed in a heartfelt statement that they were "shocked and saddened" by the devastating news, stating, "Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Pettifer family, as well as all those innocent individuals impacted by this tragic event." King Charles has also reached out to the grieving family.
Pettifer's stepmother, Alexandra "Tiggy" Pettifer, looked after Prince William and Prince Harry during their childhood in the 1990s, a relationship that formed a legacy of shared history between the families. The Pettifer family released a statement expressing their deep sadness and requesting privacy as they mourn the loss of Edward, whom they remembered as a "wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew, and friend."
The New Orleans attack saw various victims, including a notable college football player and a young aspiring nurse, as well as many others injured, with some remaining in critical condition. The FBI reported that the assailant acted alone in a premeditated act of violence, with evidence linking him to extremist groups discovered at the crime scene.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy voiced his grief over the loss of British lives in the attack, pledging support to the affected families and reiterating a united front against terrorism. As the investigation evolves, the community and families affected continue to seek answers and healing from the aftermath of this tragedy.
