Prince William has expressed deep sadness over the death of Ed Pettifer, the stepson of his former nanny, Tiggy Legge-Bourke, who tragically lost his life in the recent New Year truck attack in New Orleans, which killed 14 individuals. The Prince of Wales and his wife, Catherine, shared their thoughts on social media, stating, "Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Pettifer family and all those innocent people who have been tragically impacted by this horrific attack" (SCMP).

Pettifer, aged 31, was the last victim identified in the attack, which occurred on Bourbon Street when Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old former US Army soldier, drove a rented truck into a crowded area, injuring more than 30 others (The Hill). The Metropolitan Police in London confirmed that they are assisting Pettifer's family, helping them navigate the process of repatriating his body to the UK.

Legge-Bourke cared for both William and his brother, Prince Harry, during their childhood, including the challenging times following their mother, Princess Diana's death. Pettifer's family released a statement expressing their devastation, referring to him as "a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew and a friend to so many" and requesting privacy during their grief, while also remembering other victims of the attack.

British officials, including the UK's Foreign Secretary David Lammy, have voiced their sorrow over the attack and reiterated support for the Pettifer family. Amid the tragedy, this incident marks a grim return of ISIS-inspired actions on US soil for the first time since 2017, a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of terrorism.

For the complete story, visit SCMP or The Hill.