A British man tragically killed in the ISIS terror attack in New Orleans has been identified as the stepson of Prince William and Prince Harry’s former nanny. Edward Pettifer, 31, from Chelsea, lost his life in the New Year’s Day vehicle assault on Bourbon Street in Louisiana, where 14 people died and at least 35 others were injured. The suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, reportedly drove a pick-up truck into crowds of revellers and opened fire on bystanders.
The Met Police confirmed their support for Edward Pettifer’s family, who received the news with deep sadness. King Charles was notified through official channels and has since reached out to the family to express personal condolences. Edward Pettifer was the stepson of Tiggy Legge-Bourke, the former nanny of Princes William and Harry, and the eldest son of Charles Pettifer and Camilla Wyatt. His half brother, Tom, was a page boy at the Prince and Princess of Wales’ wedding in 2011.
In a statement, Mr Pettifer’s family described him as a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew, and friend, expressing devastation over his untimely death and extending sympathy to other families affected by the attack. The New Orleans coroner attributed his cause of death to “blunt force injuries,” with family liaison officers aiding in the repatriation of his remains to the UK.
The assailant’s vehicle was found to display an ISIS flag, and explosive devices were discovered nearby. The FBI confirmed the attacker’s affiliation with the Islamic State, prompting international condemnation. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer denounced the act as “shockingly violent,” with Foreign Secretary David Lammy offering assistance to affected British nationals.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell emphasised the city’s solidarity with the victims and their families, as investigations continue into the motive behind the attack. With tributes pouring in for Edward Pettifer and the other victims, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of terrorism and the importance of global cooperation in combating extremist acts.