Rosie Roche, the 20-year-old granddaughter of Princess Diana’s uncle, was found dead at her family home in Norton, Wiltshire, on July 14. She was a cousin to Prince William and Prince Harry.
Her mother, Pippa, and sister, Agatha, discovered Rosie’s body in the office of their home. According to reports, a firearm was found next to her. Emergency services confirmed her death at 1:22 p.m. that day.
At the inquest, Coroner Grant Davies stated that Rosie died from a gunshot wound to the head. He confirmed there was no third-party involvement, and the police had deemed her death non-suspicious.
“Rosie was getting ready to go away with friends and was packing her belongings,” Davies noted. “Her mother and sister had stepped outside, and upon returning, Agatha found Rosie deceased.”
A post-mortem was performed by Dr. Harry Haynes, and blood and urine samples have been sent for toxicology testing. The inquest has been adjourned until October 25 for further investigation.
Rosie was a first-year student at Durham University, studying English Literature. Her family issued a tribute, calling her the “darling daughter of Hugh and Pippa” and “an incredible sister to Archie and Agatha.”
Professor Wendy Powers, Principal of Durham’s University College, described Rosie as “loved for her creativity, energy, her love of books, poetry, and travel.” She added, “Our thoughts are with her family and friends, and we’re offering support during this very difficult time.”
Rosie’s sudden death has shocked the community and sparked an outpouring of grief and sympathy across social media.