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Rosie Roche, Cousin of Princes William and Harry, Found Dead at 20

Her death echoes the recent tragedy of Thomas Kingston, who died under similar circumstances

Rosie Jeanne Burke Roche, 20, a second cousin of Prince William and Prince Harry, was found dead on July 14, 2025, at her family home in Norton, Wiltshire. Her mother and sister discovered her while she was packing for a trip with friends. A firearm was found nearby, but authorities confirmed the death as non-suspicious and ruled out third-party involvement.

Shortly after, an autopsy conducted by the Wiltshire & Swindon coroner determined the cause of death to be a traumatic head injury. Coroner Grant Davies stated that no foul play was involved, according to Page Six.

At the time of her passing, Rosie was a first-year English Literature student at Durham University, described by faculty as creative, energetic, and deeply loved by her fellow students.

Who Was Rosie Roche?

Born on June 21, 2005, Rosie Roche was the daughter of Hugh and Pippa Roche, and sister to Archie and Agatha. She was also the granddaughter of Edmund Roche, 5th Baron Fermoy, who was Princess Diana’s uncle—linking her to the British royal family.

In an obituary published by The Yorkshire Post, she was remembered as: “Darling daughter of Hugh and Pippa, incredible sister to Archie and Agatha, granddaughter to Derek and Rae Long”. The family has planned a private funeral, with a public memorial service to follow.

A Pattern of Tragedy

Rosie’s sudden death echoes another recent tragedy within the extended royal family. In February 2024, Thomas Kingston—husband of Lady Gabriella Windsor—died at age 45 under similar, non-suspicious circumstances. A firearm was found nearby, and it was later confirmed that he died from a head injury and had taken his own life, according to InStyle.

Rosie’s death is a devastating loss at the beginning of a promising life—she was just starting her university journey and was beloved by friends and family. The peaceful ruling—no suspicious circumstances—provides clarity, but not solace, to those who cared for her.

As her family grieves, they’ve asked for privacy and respect. A private funeral will be held, with a public memorial service to follow. Her legacy lives on in the memories of her creativity, kindness, and boundless energy—a reminder of how fragile and precious life can be.