Queen Elizabeth ll has died at the age of 96, according to Buckingham Palace. The UK’s longest-serving monarch, died at Balmoral after reigning for 70 years.
Her family had earlier gathered at her Scottish estate after concerns grew about her health earlier on Thursday as reported by the BBC and in other media publications
The Queen came to the throne in 1952 and witnessed enormous social change. Her death brings to a close a reign that spanned seven decades and made her the most recognized woman in the world.
As monarch, the Queen is automatically granted a publicly funded state funeral. Details for the funeral are expected to be released by the palace soon.
With her death, her eldest son Charles, the former Prince of Wales, will lead the country in mourning as the new King and head of state for 14 Commonwealth realms.
The Royal website has gone dark following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
The website notes that it’s temporarily unavailable and currently has an image paying homage to the late Queen.
In a statement, Buckingham Palace said: “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon.
“The King and the Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.”
All the Queen’s children travelled to Balmoral, near Aberdeen, after doctors placed the Queen under medical supervision.
Her grandson, Prince William, is also there, with his brother, Prince Harry, on his way.
