Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom Passes Away at 96

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MARCUS PARTIDA (Editor in Chief)

Queen Elizabeth II passed away Thursday in her sleep at the age of 96. She died in Balmoral Castle in Scotland after health officials had already become concerned with her health. The United Kingdom gathers around Buckingham palace to mourn the loss as Charles becomes the new King.

“It hurts a bit as she was an important figure,” senior Franciso Enriquez said. “I am worried about King Charles as he is also a bit old. I wonder how long he will be King for.”

Queen Elizabeth has been on the throne since 1952, a reign that lasted seven decades. She was officially crowned in 1953. Her reign is the longest in the United Kingdom’s history as she exceeded the length of Queen Victoria’s reign back in 2015.

“I feel very sad that she is gone after such a long time of being Queen,” freshman Ava Zeller said. “I am sure her people miss her already.”

In response to her death, The Royal Family’s Twitter account states that they will remain in Scotland for the remainder of the evening, returning to London on Friday. Outside of Buckingham palace, residents of the United Kingdom have gathered to mourn the loss. According to BBC, the crowds began to cry once the news broke. In response to her death, the Union flag on top of the palace was lowered to half-mast.

Immediately following her death, Prince William and Katherine assumed the titles of Duke and Duchess of Cornwall, titles that Charles and Camila previously held. Meanwhile, Charles has become the King of the United Kingdom. Charles had already been taking over some of the Queen’s responsibilities and commitments due to health issues earlier this year. He had the option to take on any name he wishes to be referred to for his reign. For instance, King George IV’s real name was Albert. According to CNN, he will continue to use his name, becoming King Charles III.

“I am not much of a fan of the British monarchy and what it represents,” English teacher Jamie Collins said. “I am sad she passed and respect the death but as far as the monarchy goes, I am not a fan.”

The United Kingdom continues to mourn their loss as other nations send their condolences. An official date for Charles’s coronation has yet to be announced. He is expected to make an address on Friday.