Shockwaves have rippled through the royal family once again following the unexpected death of a 20-year-old woman — just over a year after another high-profile tragedy.

Prince William and Prince Harry | Source: Getty Images

According to an inquest, a firearm was discovered near her body at the property in Norton, near Malmesbury, Wiltshire. Rosie had been preparing to leave for a trip with friends when her mother and sister found her.

Police have ruled out foul play. Area coroner Grant Davies stated there was “no third-party involvement” and the death is being treated as non-suspicious. The inquest was opened at Wiltshire and Swindon Coroner’s Court and has been adjourned until October 25.

A view of Buckingham palace | Source: Getty Images

Rosie was the granddaughter of Princess Diana’s uncle. She had been studying English Literature at Durham University. The University spokeswoman confirmed her death and said she “will be sorely missed.” Neither Rosie’s family nor a representative for Prince William issued a comment.

Rosie’s death comes just over a year after another loss within the extended Royal Family. In February 2024, Thomas Kingston, the husband of Lady Gabriella Windsor, was found dead at his parents’ home with a firearm nearby.

Thomas Kingston and Lady Gabriella Kingston attend the Committal Service for Queen Elizabeth II at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle on September 19, 2022. | Source: Getty Images

Thomas, 45, died at the property in a village in the Cotswolds. Gloucestershire’s senior coroner, Katy Skerrett, confirmed he had suffered a “catastrophic head injury.” A post-mortem later gave the cause of death as a “traumatic wound to the head.”

Thomas, a financier, had been visiting his parents on February 25, that fateful day. After joining them for lunch, he was not seen again in the house. His mother began searching after 30 minutes had passed.

Thomas Kingston and Lady Gabriella Windsor at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 09, 2019 in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

His dad would later force open an outbuilding when they couldn’t find him. Inside, Thomas was discovered unresponsive, with a gun present at the scene. Emergency services were called, but police found no evidence of suspicious circumstances.

Months after Thomas’ death, further details emerged during a pre-inquest review in October 2024. His passing, initially ruled non-suspicious, was described in court as unexpected and impulsive.

Lady Gabriella Windsor and Tom Kingston attend the Jerudong Trophy polo match at Cirencester Park Polo Club on June 25, 2016 in Cirencester, England. | Source: Getty Images

At Gloucester Coroner’s Court, Martin Porter KC, representing the family, said they had been advised of a possible link between Thomas’ mental state and a prescribed medication he was taking. He urged the court not to focus solely on the immediate cause of death, which had already been established.

Senior coroner Katy Skerrett agreed that the role of the medication should be included in the inquest’s scope. However, she cautioned that proving a direct link would be complex and not guaranteed.

Thomas Kingston at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle on May 18, 2019 in Windsor, England. | Source: Getty Images

Thomas’ parents were present at the hearing. His father, Martin Kingston, was expected to provide evidence during the inquest. Lady Gabriella did not attend the session. Mr Martin told the court there had been no indication of long-term planning behind the death. “On the contrary,” he said, “there was planning for the future.”

Following Thomas’ death, his wife, Lady Gabriella, joined his family in a tribute, calling him an “exceptional man who lit up the lives of all who knew him.” King Charles and Queen Camilla also expressed their condolences, offering “heartfelt thoughts and prayers” to the family.

Lady Gabriela Windsor and Tom Kingston attend the Beulah London store opening on May 16, 2018 in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

The coroner indicated her intention to conclude the inquest before the end of the year to help provide the family with closure.

We previously reported in 2024 that the royal family experienced another huge loss, following the death of Lord Fellowes, Prince Harry’s uncle, who passed away on July 29 at the age of 82.

Lord Robert Fellows arrives to the High Court on February 12, 2008, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Lord Fellowes was known for his distinguished role as Queen Elizabeth II’s private secretary and his close ties to the Spencer family. His passing marked a somber moment for both Prince Harry and his relatives.

Lord Fellowes was born in Sandringham in 1941. He enjoyed a notable career, serving as a trusted confidant to the Queen. He married Lady Jane Spencer, Princess Diana’s elder sister, in 1978, further entwining his life with the royal family’s story.

Lady Jane Fellowes and Robert Fellowes at Westminster Abbey on February 15, 2011, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

His death left many reflecting on his significant role in the tapestry of the British ruling class. As the royal family gathered to bid farewell to Lord Fellowes, Prince Harry faced a significant obstacle in attending his beloved uncle’s funeral.

Baron Robert Fellowes at the Parish Church of St. Nicholas in Gayton on September 14, 2013, near King’s Lynn, England. | Source: Getty Images

Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020 and relocating to the US, Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, were stripped of taxpayer-funded security in the UK. This means they must cover the cost of police protection out of their own pockets.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the 2024 ESPY Awards on July 11, 2024, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

Compounding the situation is the current UK law that requires Harry to notify British officials of any travel plans to the UK at least 28 days in advance. With this rule in place, Harry unfortunately missed the deadline to arrange his visit for Lord Fellowes’ funeral.

Sir Robert Fellowes and Lady Jane Fellowes at All Saints Church, Sudbourne on April 2, 2011, in Woodbridge, England. | Source: Getty Images

Despite this, Harry was in touch with his family during the time of loss. He reached out to his aunt, Lady Jane, and his cousins, as well as his late mother Diana’s brother, Charles Spencer, demonstrating his ongoing connection and support for his relatives.

According to a source, Prince Harry would like to spend more time in the UK; however, the logistical complications for his team due to the security issues make it almost impossible.

Prince Harry departs the Rolls Building of the High Court after giving evidence during the Mirror Group phone hacking trial on June 6, 2023, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

In February 2024, the Duke of Sussex lost his legal challenge to reinstate automatic security for himself and his family. This decision came after UK authorities stripped away their protection in early 2020, shortly after Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties.