Neergabby, Australia — Virginia Giuffre, a prominent figure in the fight against sexual abuse and an outspoken accuser of Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein, has died at the age of 41. Her family confirmed that she died by suicide on Thursday at her farm in Western Australia, stating that the toll of her experiences with abuse became unmanageable.
Giuffre was a vocal advocate for survivors of sexual exploitation, having alleged that Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell trafficked her to Prince Andrew when she was just 17 years old. The Duke of York has consistently denied these accusations. In a statement released by her family, Giuffre was remembered as a “fierce warrior” who illuminated the paths of many other survivors.
The family revealed that the weight of her lifelong struggles with sexual abuse and trafficking ultimately led to her tragic end. “Virginia was a light to so many survivors,” they said, reflecting on her relentless fight for justice.
Local authorities reported that police were called to her residence in Neergabby, where they found her unresponsive. Though Major Crime detectives are investigating the circumstances of her death, preliminary findings suggest there are no suspicious factors involved.
Giuffre had recently been residing with her husband, Robert, and their three children in North Perth. However, reports indicated that the couple may have separated after 22 years of marriage. Just weeks prior to her death, Giuffre had shared on social media that she had suffered serious injuries from a car accident, a revelation that her family later clarified was not intended for public knowledge. Local police subsequently questioned the seriousness of her injuries.
Giuffre’s allegations against Epstein and Maxwell sparked significant media attention and made her a notable figure within the Me Too movement. Her courageous decision to speak out led to increased awareness of sexual abuse and trafficking, as well as challenges to powerful figures in society.
In 2022, Prince Andrew reached an out-of-court settlement with Giuffre, which included a statement of regret regarding his association with Epstein, but did not include an admission of guilt. Giuffre described her past experiences and the trauma she endured after being introduced to Epstein at age 16.
Epstein, who faced multiple charges related to sex trafficking, died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial. Maxwell was convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison for her involvement in Epstein’s crimes.
As the news of Giuffre’s passing resonates, many are calling for deeper conversations about the ongoing struggles of survivors of abuse. Support resources are available for those in distress; individuals in the U.S. can reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text HOME to 741741. In Canada, help is also available through the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868.