Queen Elizabeth II passed away Thursday, Sept. 8 at Balmoral Castle in the United Kingdom at the age of 96.
“The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon,” the Royal Family wrote in a statement on Twitter. “The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.”
The Queen was the longest reigning monarch, taking over the throne from her father, King George IV, on Feb. 6, 1952, more than 70 years ago.
The British Embassy in Washington, D.C., lowered its flag to half mast in a sign of respect for the late Queen.
Following the news, the British Ambassador to the United States tweeted, “Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II. She devoted a lifetime of dedicated service to Her country and was an inspiring role model for everyone across the globe. Her legacy is one of charity and compassion. Sending condolences to @RoyalFamily.”
President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden released a statement on the Queen’s passing.
“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was more than a monarch. She defined an era,” the Bidens wrote, adding, “Today, the thoughts and prayers of people all across the United States are with the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth in their grief.”
Queen Elizabeth II: April 21, 1926 – September 8, 2022.