A tragic vehicle attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day has claimed the life of Edward Pettifer, a 31-year-old British national and stepson of former royal nanny, Tiggy Legge-Bourke. Pettifer was identified by the Metropolitan Police as one of 14 victims killed in the incident, which also left over 30 people injured. The attack occurred around 3:15 AM in the popular Bourbon Street area and involved a pickup truck driven by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. Army veteran who subsequently opened fire at police officers following the collision [BBC].

King Charles III expressed his deep sadness over Pettifer's death, reaching out to the family to convey his condolences. The royal family has a personal connection to Pettifer, as Legge-Bourke, also known as Alexandra Pettifer, was the nanny to both Prince William and Prince Harry from 1993 to 1999, a particularly sensitive time following the death of their mother, Princess Diana. In a message shared on social media, Prince William, alongside his wife, Catherine, stated they were “shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Ed Pettifer” and extended their thoughts to his grieving family and the others affected by the attack [Independent].

Pettifer's family described him as “a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew and a friend to so many.” They expressed devastation over their loss and requested privacy to grieve [The Guardian].

The FBI has launched an investigation into the attack, which they are treating as a terrorist act, as an Islamic State flag, along with weapons and improvised explosive devices, were discovered in Jabbar's vehicle. His actions have shocked communities both in the U.S. and abroad, prompting global condemnation [AP News].

The New Orleans mayor has announced that a foundation will be set up to assist the victims of this horrific incident, with plans for increased security measures in light of the tragedy [Reuters].

As investigations continue, the royal family, alongside many others, mourns the loss of Edward Pettifer while calling for unity against the scourge of terrorism in all its forms.