Trooper Jack Burnell-Williams, an 18-year-old soldier who played a key role in the Queen's state funeral, has been found dead at his barracks in London. The Guardsman was pronounced dead at Hyde Park Barracks in Knightsbridge on Wednesday afternoon, despite efforts by police and paramedics to save him.
His mother Laura paid tribute to her son, known as Jak to family and friends, saying: 'Never ever thought I would be saying this but we as a family are all heartbroken with the sudden passing of our wonderful son Jak Williams yesterday.' The Metropolitan Police confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Burnell-Williams, from Bridgend, South Wales, was among the Household Cavalry troops who guarded the late monarch's coffin during its final journey earlier this month. His father Daniel had proudly posted on social media on the day of the funeral: 'My son doing his duty for the Queen on her final journey. So proud of you Jak Williams.'
The soldier's girlfriend Molly Holmes wrote: 'Forever going to miss you my love. Truly heartbroken.' His sister Elisha added: 'We will get through this together as a team. We need to do him just as proud as he's done us.' The family plan to release blue balloons into the sky to celebrate his life.
