Royal Family Faces Another Heartbreaking Loss as Young Relative Dies Suddenly

This marks the second sudden death with similar circumstances to impact the royal family in recent years

The British Royal Family is facing another tragic loss as they mourn the death of Rosie Roche, the 20-year-old second cousin to Prince William and Prince Harry.

The Durham University student was found deceased with a firearm nearby at a property in Norton, England.

Roche was the granddaughter of Princess Diana‘s uncle, making her a second cousin to the royal brothers. She was reportedly studying English literature at Durham University and was described in her obituary as the “darling daughter of Hugh and Pippa” and “incredible sister to Archie and Agatha.”

According to The Sun, Roche’s mother and sister discovered her body while she was packing for a trip with friends. Police have classified the death as “non-suspicious” with no third-party involvement, the coroner confirmed to the outlet.

A spokesperson told the tabloid that Roche “will be sorely missed.” The Yorkshire Post reportedly published her obituary on July 19, announcing a private family funeral with a memorial service to follow at a later date.

This latest tragedy marks another sudden death connected to the Royal Family following Thomas Kingston‘s February 2024 passing. Kingston, husband of Prince William and Harry’s cousin Lady Gabriella Kingston, died from a gunshot wound at his parents’ Cotswolds home.

“Tom was an exceptional man who lit up the lives of all who knew him,” the statement read at the time. “His death has come as a great shock to the whole family, and we ask you to respect our privacy as we mourn his passing.”

The Prince of Wales, along with other members of the royal family, later attended Kingston’s funeral in London.