Royal Prank Call Leads To SUICIDE: Mel Greig & Michael Christian Causes Jacintha Saldanha's Death
A NURSE at the private hospital that treated the Duchess of Cambridge has reportedly committed suicide, days after being duped by an Australian radio hoax.
Jacinta Saldanha's unconscious body was found in a home close to the King Edward VII Hospital on Friday morning, UK time, police and paramedics said.
Ambulances were dispatched but paramedics could not revive her.
Police said the death was "unexplained" and have launched an investigation, but "the death is not being treated as suspicious at this stage".
Her husband and two children have been informed of the death.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge said in a statement they were "deeply saddened" by the news, adding: "Their Royal Highnesses were looked after so wonderfully well at all times by everybody at King Edward VII Hospital, and their thoughts and prayers are with Jacintha Saldanha's family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time."
The hospital announced the death of Mrs Saldanha with "very deep sadness" in a statement released to the media.
The statement said "We can confirm that Jacintha was recently the victim of a hoax call to the hospital.
"The hospital has been supporting her throughout this difficult time.
"Jacintha has worked at the King Edward VII Hospital for more than four years. She was an excellent nurse, well respected and popular with all of her colleagues."
Mrs Saldanha was staffing the hospital switchboard when, two days
The BBC reported that Mrs Saldanha answered the phone because it was 5.30am and there was no receptionist on duty.
The radio presenters pretended to be the Queen and Prince Charles, and asked to be put through to Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, who was in the hospital with a pregnancy-related illness.
Greig said "Oh hello there. Could I please speak to Kate please, my granddaughter."
Mrs Saldanha replied "Oh yes, just hold on ma'am" and put the presenters through to another duty nurse who was caring for the Duchess.
The duty nurse, who believed she was speaking to the Queen, then gave private information about the Duchess' medical condition.
John Lofthouse, the hospital's chief executive, said of Mrs Saldanha: "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 the hospital, said: "This is 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."
The hospital said previously it "take(s) patient confidentiality extremely seriously" and launched a "review of telephone protocols" after the stunt. Mrs Saldanha had not been suspended or disciplined by the hospital, the BBC reported.
The hoax made international headlines and both the station and the presenters have apologised.
Both DJs deleted their Twitter accounts overnight, after a flood of messages criticising them when the news of the nurse's death became public.
- If you or someone you know may be at risk of suicide contact Lifeline 13 11 14, beyondblue 1300 22 46 36, or Salvo Care Line 1300 36 36 22.
