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Rosie Roche, a cousin to Prince William and Prince Harry, has died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities confirmed. The 20-year-old was found dead in her family home in Norton, Wiltshire, on July 14. Her mother and sister discovered her body while she was packing for a trip with friends.
A firearm was found nearby, and emergency services were called to the scene shortly after 1 p.m. Police have ruled out any suspicious circumstances. "There was no third-party involvement," said Coroner Grant Davies during the inquest, which was opened on July 20 and adjourned until October 25.
Roche, who was in her first year studying English Literature at Durham University, was described by her college head, Professor Wendy Powers, as "creative, full of energy, and deeply loved." Her family described her as a "darling daughter" and "incredible sister" in a public obituary notice, confirming a private funeral will be held, followed by a memorial at a later date.
Rosie was the granddaughter of Edmund Roche, the 5th Baron Fermoy and Princess Diana's uncle. Baron Fermoy died by suicide in 1984 at age 45, marking a tragic parallel in the family's history.
Durham University released a statement mourning Rosie's loss and offering counseling services to staff and students. University officials noted that Rosie had quickly made friends and was thriving in her academic and social life.
