Royal tragedy: Princes William and Harry’s cousin found dead in Wiltshire

Princes William and Harry's distant cousin Rosie Roche was recently found dead at her family's home in Norton, Wiltshire.

The 20-year-old, who is the granddaughter of Princess Diana's uncle, passed away right before she was set to vacation with friends.

According to online reports, Roche was discovered by her mother, Phillipa Roche, and her sister, Agatha Roche.

A firearm was located nearby, prompting an investigation by the Wiltshire and Swindon police.

The initial investigation has since been classified as "non-suspicious" with no indications of third-party involvement; however, an inquest has been opened at the Wiltshire and Swindon coroner’s court.

The investigation has been adjourned until October 25.

Roche was a second-year English Literature student at Durham University. A spokesperson for the university expressed their grief, stating that "she will be sorely missed".

In an obituary published in the "Yorkshire Post" on July 19, by her family described Roche as a "darling daughter" and "incredible sister".

"Roche, Rosie Jeanne Burke. Died on Monday 14th July 2025. Darling daughter of Hugh and Pippa, incredible sister to Archie and Agatha, Granddaughter to Derek and Rae Long" it read.

The obituary also noted that a private family funeral would be held, with a memorial service to follow at a later date for friends and extended family.

This tragedy has brought renewed attention to another recent loss in the royal circle.

In February 2024, Thomas Kingston, husband of Lady Gabriella Kingston (another cousin of William and Harry), was also found dead from a gunshot wound.

In that case, an inquest later confirmed that Kingston had died by suicide.

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