King Edward VII hospital in London is confirming the death of a nurse who was the victim of a crank phone call about the well-being of the Duchess of Cambridge during her hospital stay there earlier this week.
Police told CP24 that the woman's death is not suspicious.
In a statement to reporters, hospital chief executive John Lofthouse said nurse Jacintha Saldanha was a "first-class nurse" who cared for hundreds of patients, and everyone is shocked by her death.
Lofthouse described her as a "much-loved and valued colleague."
Here is the hospital's statement in its entirety:
It is with very deep sadness that we confirm the tragic death of a member of our nursing staff, Jacintha Saldanha.
Jacintha has worked at the King Edward VII’s Hospital for more than four years. She was an excellent nurse and well-respected and popular with all of her colleagues.
We can confirm that Jacintha was recently the victim of a hoax call to the hospital. The hospital had been supporting her throughout this difficult time.
John Lofthouse, Chief Executive at King Edward VII’s Hospital, says: “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies at this time are with her family and friends. Everyone is shocked by the loss of a much loved and valued colleague.”
Lord Glenarthur, Chairman of King Edward VII’s Hospital, says, “This is a tragic event. Jacintha was a first class nurse who cared diligently for hundreds of patients during her time with us. She will be greatly missed.”
