Edward Pettifer, stepson of the former royal nanny, was among 14 killed in a New Orleans vehicle attack. The tragedy prompted condolences from the British royal family, highlighting Pettifer's close ties to Prince William and Prince Harry.
In a tragic event on New Year's Day, Edward Pettifer, a British national with close ties to the royal family, was among 14 people killed in a vehicle attack in New Orleans. Pettifer, 31, was the stepson of Alexandra Pettifer, formerly known as Tiggy Legge-Bourke, who served as a nanny to Prince William and Prince Harry in the 1990s. The attack, carried out by a U.S. Army veteran inspired by ISIS, has left the royal family and many others mourning the loss of innocent lives.
Edward Pettifer, who was killed in the New Orleans attack, was the stepson of Alexandra Pettifer, known as Tiggy Legge-Bourke. She was a beloved nanny to Prince William and Prince Harry during their childhood. Legge-Bourke played a significant role in the lives of the young princes, especially after the separation of their parents, Charles and Diana. Pettifer's tragic death has deeply affected the royal family, with King Charles and Prince William expressing their condolences to the Pettifer family. "Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Pettifer family and all those innocent people who have been tragically impacted by this horrific attack," Prince William stated [1].
The attack occurred in the early hours of New Year's Day on Bourbon Street, a popular nightlife area in New Orleans. The assailant, a 42-year-old U.S. Army veteran, drove a pickup truck into a crowd, resulting in 14 deaths and numerous injuries. The FBI has confirmed that the attack was premeditated, with evidence of ISIS inspiration found in the suspect's vehicle. Two improvised explosive devices were also discovered nearby, although they were not detonated. The attack has been described as a 'premeditated and evil act' by authorities [2].
The attack has left many families grieving, including the Pettifer family, who described Edward as a 'wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to so many.' The family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss. The royal family has also been in touch with the Pettifer family to offer condolences. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed his sorrow over the incident, stating that the UK stands united with the US against terror threats. The attack has not only claimed lives but also left a lasting impact on the victims' families and communities [3].
The tragic death of Edward Pettifer and 13 others in the New Orleans attack has highlighted the senselessness of violence and the far-reaching impact it has on families and communities. The royal family's connection to Pettifer underscores the personal nature of the loss for many. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the victims' families and preventing such tragedies in the future.
"Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Pettifer family and all those innocent people who have been tragically impacted by this horrific attack." - Prince William
"The entire family are devastated at the tragic news of Ed’s death in New Orleans." - Pettifer Family