A member of the Saudi royal family has died at 36 years old after remaining unconscious for more than two decades following a horrific vehicular collision in London. Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid Al-Saud sustained severe brain trauma and massive internal injuries when the accident occurred in 2005, leaving him just 15 years old at the time of the life-altering incident.
The young royal, who became internationally recognized as the “Sleeping Prince,” required continuous mechanical breathing assistance throughout his hospitalization and never achieved complete awareness during his extended medical care. His tragic passing was confirmed through social media by his father, who had maintained hope for his son’s recovery throughout the lengthy ordeal.
Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, the deceased royal’s father, announced the death through an emotional message on the social platform X. The grieving parent incorporated religious scripture into his statement, drawing from Islamic holy text to express his family’s profound loss and acceptance of divine will.
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman talking to media upon his arrival for his welcome reception at President’s house in New Delhi, India, September 11, 2023 (EPA/HARISH TYAGI)
“With hearts believing in Allah’s will and decree, and with deep sorrow and sadness, we mourn our beloved son: Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may Allah have mercy on him, who passed away today,” the father wrote in his tribute message. The statement reflected both the family’s religious faith and their devastating grief over losing their eldest child.
The circumstances surrounding the initial accident date back to when Prince Al-Waleed was pursuing his education at a British military institution in London. His academic pursuits were permanently interrupted by the catastrophic crash that would define the remainder of his shortened existence.
Following the traumatic event, medical professionals transferred the critically injured prince to King Abdulaziz Medical City located in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. The specialized medical facility became his permanent residence, where he remained in an unconscious state from that point forward until his recent death.
Throughout the extended period of medical care, Prince Al-Waleed’s father demonstrated unwavering determination regarding his son’s treatment and potential for recovery. The devoted parent maintained optimistic expectations that his child would eventually achieve complete rehabilitation and return to normal life.
Saudi King Salman (R) being welcomed by his son Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (L) at Jeddah airport upon his return from holiday Morocco (BANDAR AL-JALOUD / Saudi Royal Palace / AFP)
The senior royal consistently refused to consider terminating his son’s life-sustaining medical interventions despite the prolonged nature of the unconscious condition.
Social media platforms experienced widespread discussion following the official death announcement, with the phrase “Sleeping Prince” becoming a trending topic across multiple networks. Thousands of individuals from around the globe shared messages of sympathy and support for the bereaved royal family.
“May Prince Al-Waleed bin Khalid, Rest In Peace. Deepest sympathies to his loved ones,” one social media user expressed in their condolence message. The public response demonstrated international awareness of the prince’s prolonged medical struggle and the family’s enduring ordeal.
“Your time on earth was a blessing to your family and the world in general,” another individual commented on the tragic circumstances. These expressions of sympathy highlighted the widespread compassion felt by observers who had followed the prince’s story over the years.
“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace,” a third person contributed to the online memorial discussion. The collective outpouring of support illustrated how the prince’s situation had touched people globally, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.
Religious ceremonies honoring Prince Al-Waleed’s life will take place at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh, according to News.com.au. The funeral prayers represent the final chapter in a story that captured international attention for over two decades.
