Virginia Giuffre, the woman known for accusing Prince Andrew of sexual abuse, has died at the age of 41, with her family and authorities releasing official statements regarding her death.
Virginia Giuffre died by suicide on Thursday, April 24, at her home in Neergabby, Australia, where she had lived for several years, her family has confirmed. The Western Australia Police Force also confirmed the death.
Virginia Roberts Giuffre during an interview in New York on August 29, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
The police noted that emergency services responded to a residence in Neergabby on Friday night and found an unresponsive 41-year-old woman. Despite first-aid efforts at the scene, Giuffre was declared deceased.
According to media liaison officer Shelby Brady, “early indications is the death is not suspicious,” and Major Crime detectives are currently investigating. In a heartfelt statement, Giuffre’s family described her as a “fierce warrior in the fight against sexual abuse and sex trafficking.”
Virginia Roberts Giuffre speaks at a news conference in New York on August 27, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
They shared that the birth of her daughter had been a turning point in her life, inspiring her to stand up against those who had abused her. Giuffre leaves behind three children: Christian, Noah, and Emily, whom her family called “the light of her life.”
Attorney Sigrid McCawley, who represented Giuffre, also spoke about her passing, describing her as more than a client — a dear friend and a champion for other victims. “Her courage pushed me to fight harder, and her strength was awe-inspiring,” McCawley stated.
Virginia Roberts Giuffre attend the 2019 Women’s Media Awards with a friend, at Mandarin Oriental on October 22, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
Giuffre’s advocacy work and her legal battles brought global attention to issues of sexual abuse and trafficking. Her legacy remains in the lives she touched and the survivors she inspired.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “help” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
