Edward Pettifer, a British national, has been identified as one of the victims of a tragic vehicle attack in New Orleans on January 1st, which left a total of 14 individuals dead. The Metropolitan Police announced Pettifer’s identity following the shocking incident.
Prince William and Catherine expressed their profound sorrow about the death of Pettifer, whose stepmother, Alexandra Pettifer, is known for caring for William and Harry during their childhood. “Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Pettifer family and all those innocent people who have been tragically impacted by this horrific attack,” stated Prince William.
King Charles has also conveyed his deep sadness over the loss and has reached out to Pettifer’s family during this difficult time.
The New Orleans attack was carried out by a 42-year-old army veteran who drove a pick-up truck into crowds along Bourbon Street before being shot and killed by police. According to the coroner’s preliminary findings, Pettifer suffered fatal “blunt force injuries.” His family remembered him as a “wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to so many.”
Authorities report that the suspect, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, acted alone in what has been described as a “premeditated and evil act.” Evidence linked to the Islamic State was discovered in the suspect’s vehicle, along with improvised explosive devices found nearby.
The attack resulted in injuries to at least 39 other individuals, many of whom were treated in local hospitals. While some have been discharged, over a dozen remain hospitalized, some in intensive care.
Pettifer’s family expressed their devastation over the loss, requesting privacy to grieve while also extending their thoughts to the other families affected by this attack. Foreign Secretary David Lammy conveyed his sadness regarding the incident, emphasizing support for Pettifer’s family and a united stance against terrorism with the U.S.
Alexandra Pettifer, who served as a nanny to the royal brothers, has played a significant role in the lives of the princes. She joined King Charles’s staff in 1993 and remained a close companion through significant events in their lives, including the death of Princess Diana.
