Prince William’s Friend Dies in Fall from London Rooftop Bar

Ben Duncan, a friend of Prince William from their university days, tragically died after falling approximately 100 feet from the rooftop bar of the Trafalgar St. James hotel in London. The incident occurred on the night of March 28, 2024, and was reported by the Daily Mail.

The Metropolitan Police received calls regarding a “man on the roof of a building in Cockspur Street, Westminster,” shortly after 23:00. Officers arrived to find that Duncan had fallen from the height, a spokesperson stated. “Despite the best efforts of the London Ambulance Service, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene,” the representative confirmed. Authorities emphasized that the circumstances surrounding Duncan’s death are “unexpected but non-suspicious.”

Emergency services were dispatched promptly, including an ambulance crew, incident response officers, and a trauma team from London’s Air Ambulance. The London Ambulance Service confirmed that multiple resources were sent to the scene but were unable to save Duncan.

Duncan’s body was located in Spring Gardens, just off Trafalgar Square, a notable area in the heart of London. The rooftop bar at the hotel features high plastic screens designed for safety, raising questions about the circumstances leading to the fall.

Friendship with the Royals

Duncan, 45, was known for his close ties to the royal family, having attended the University of St. Andrews in Scotland alongside Prince William and Kate Middleton. This university experience marked the beginning of the royal couple’s relationship. As part of their inner circle, Duncan later gained fame as a television personality, appearing on shows like “Big Brother” and various reality programs.

In a 2010 interview, Duncan reminisced about the royal couple’s college romance, noting, “Because we’d had Will and Kate in our midst, we had royal protection officers swarming the place.” His insights highlighted the unique atmosphere surrounding their relationship, as they navigated their feelings under public scrutiny.

Duncan also recalled the iconic campus fashion show that played a pivotal role in their love story, describing how Middleton’s striking outfit caught William’s eye. “He was sitting front row, and his eyes were like stalks,” Duncan shared, reflecting on the moment that changed the course of the monarchy’s history.

Legacy and Impact

The news of Duncan’s passing has sent shockwaves through those who knew him. Friends and acquaintances are mourning a man who played a significant role in the lives of those around him, particularly within the royal circle. As tributes pour in, the impact of his friendship with William and Middleton is being remembered fondly.

Representatives for Prince William did not provide immediate comments regarding Duncan’s death. The ongoing investigation into the circumstances of the fall remains a priority for local authorities. As details continue to unfold, the community reflects on the life and legacy of a man who was more than just a friend to the royals; he was a cherished figure whose connections spanned beyond the university campus.