Rosie Roche’s cause of death has been confirmed as her university pays tribute.
The 20-year-old, who was a cousin of Princes William and Harry, was found dead at her family home in Norton, Malmesbury, on 14 July.
According to The Sun, Area Coroner Grant Davies confirmed that Rosie died from a gunshot wound to her head – and was found slumped over the firearm.
At an inquest opening held at Wiltshire and Swindon Coroner’s Court, he said: “Rosie was getting ready to go away with friends and was packing her belongings at home.
“Philippa, her mum, and Agatha, her sister, were outside and then they returned inside the home address.
“Upon checking the office in the house, Agatha found Rosie deceased and she was slumped over a firearm with significant head trauma.
“The ambulance attended and confirmed the death at 1.22pm that day.
“Police attended and have deemed the death as non-suspicious and there was no third-party involvement.
“A post-mortem was carried out by Dr Harry Haynes from Great Western Hospital.”
The inquest was adjourned until 23 October for a pre-inquest review to take place. Toxicology results are expected to return some time later, as blood and urine was sent for testing.
In a moving tribute, the Principal of Durham’s University College, Professor Wendy Powers said: “University College staff and students are extremely saddened by the tragic death of Rosie Roche.
“Rosie was a first-year student studying for an English Literature degree. Rosie had settled into the University and College beautifully and had lots of friends.
“She was loved for her creativity, energy, her love of books, poetry and travel among many other talents. She will be sorely missed.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with Rosie’s family and friends, and we are offering support to those affected at this extremely difficult time”.
