Prince William and Kate Middleton's College Pal Dead at 45 After Falling 100 Feet From London Rooftop

Ben Duncan, a close friend of Prince William and Kate Middleton from their university days, tragically passed away at the age of 45 after falling from a rooftop bar in London. The accident happened on October 30, 2025, at the prestigious Trafalgar St. James Hotel. Reports say Duncan fell approximately 100 feet, equivalent to seven stories, landing in the nearby Spring Gardens area. Emergency services responded swiftly, but despite their best efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Metropolitan Police described the incident as an unexpected but non-suspicious death. The circumstances surrounding Duncan’s fall were detailed by both police and ambulance services. Officers were alerted to concerns about a man on the roof shortly after 11 p.m. They rushed to the site along with multiple paramedics, including a trauma team from London’s Air Ambulance. Unfortunately, their intervention could not save him. Authorities confirmed the event to be accidental, ruling out foul play. Ben Duncan had a notable connection with the British Royal Family, having met William and Kate during their time at St. Andrews University in Scotland in the early 2000s. The three quickly formed a strong friendship, with Duncan among the first to learn about William and Kate’s budding romance starting in 2003. He often spoke fondly of the couple and recalled the moment William first noticed Kate at a college fashion show in 2002. Duncan vividly remembered Kate's daring sheer dress that caught William's immediate attention, an event he playfully said changed the course of royal history. Over the years, Duncan’s relationship with the royals remained significant in public interest. He was considered an insider figure who provided glimpses into the couple’s early life before they rose to global prominence. His death has reverberated among those who knew him and royal watchers alike, as his passing marks the loss of someone who shared a personal history with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The tragic event has also brought renewed attention to the safety measures at popular rooftop venues in London. The suddenness of the accident highlights risks associated with high-altitude social spots, especially late at night. As investigations continue, this has sparked conversations around better protective barriers and enhanced monitoring to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Meanwhile, tributes from friends and acquaintances emphasize Duncan’s warm personality and the unique role he played in the story of one of the world's most famous couples.