Royal Prank call nurse in apparent suicide

In what is a very sad turn of events, one of the hospital staff who took the Hot 30's prank call earlier this week, has died in a suspected suicide.

The Sun have reported that the woman is apparently the first person heard during the prank call, she was initially thought to be a receptionist at the hospital but is now said to have been a nurse staffing the switchboard.

The woman’s unconscious body was found at an address not far from King Edward VII Hospital, where she worked.

On arrival, paramedics were unable to revive her and she was pronounced dead at the scene.

The hospital have confirmed that it was nurse Jacintha Saldanha. In their statement they said:

"Jacintha has worked at the King Edward VII's Hospital for more than four years. She was an excellent nurse and well-respected and popular with all of her colleagues."

John Lofthouse, Chief Executive at the hospital, says: "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, says: "This is a 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."

Read more at the BBC website here

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.