Camilla 'utterly devastated' by brother's sudden death

62-year-old Mark Shand died after suffering a serious head injury as the result of a fall in New York.

16:47 24 April 2014

Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall was 'utterly devastated' over the sudden death of her brother – 62-year-old Mark Shand, who died after suffering a serious head injury during a fall in New York. 

 

Police said that the travel writer died around 3am on Wednesday outside the Rose Bar on Lexington Avenue. 

 

A statement from Clarence House said: "The Duchess, The Prince of Wales and all her family members are utterly devastated by this sudden and tragic loss.

 

"Mark Shand was a man of extraordinary vitality, a tireless campaigner and conservationist whose incredible work through The Elephant Family and beyond remained his focus right up until his death."

 

Meanwhile, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge also released a statement. 

 

"The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were saddened to learn this morning of the tragic death of Mark Shand. Their thoughts are with The Duchess of Cornwall and her family at this time."

 

Mr Shand was Camilla’s only brother. He was in the city for an auction at Sotherby’s in aid of The Elephant Family's conservation work and a charity for underprivileged children.