Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge and royal expert in polite sympathy, has sent his warmest condolences (and possibly a very British hug) to his former nanny, Tiggy Legge-Bourke, following the devastating loss of her stepson in a New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans.
Now, before you wonder why Bourbon Street, known for its beads and questionable life choices, would be in the same story as the British royal family, here’s what happened: In the wee hours of January 1, a Texas man (clearly having the worst hangover imaginable) drove a rented truck straight into crowds celebrating the new year. That’s right—he brought a truck to a party that only wanted confetti and champagne.
Among the victims was Ed Pettifer, 31, a Chelsea resident and the stepson of Tiggy, who famously looked after Prince William and Prince Harry during their younger years. If Tiggy taught the princes their manners, Ed surely inherited some top-notch table etiquette and impeccable tea-brewing skills.
On January 4, Prince William put down his tea cup long enough to craft a heartfelt statement on his Instagram Story. Yes, the man who might one day wear the crown is out here using Insta Stories like the rest of us, proving royals—they’re just like us (sort of).
“Catherine and I have been shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Ed Pettifer,” wrote William, possibly while balancing a royal corgi on his lap. “Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Pettifer family and all those innocent people who have been tragically impacted by this horrific attack.”
Ed, who was known to call Chelsea home (a neighborhood where rent prices could make a royal blush), was visiting Louisiana with a friend when tragedy struck. While his time there wasn’t meant to end this way, Ed’s memory will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who loved him, including the royal nanny who probably still gives William a stern look when he misbehaves.
To the Pettifer family and all the victims’ loved ones, our deepest condolences. May Bourbon Street go back to being known for parades, not tragedy. And to Ed, RIP—you deserved more time to live life and, perhaps, enjoy another pint at the pub.
