Royalty & Nobility · 20th Century
Princess Diana’s Last Words
“My God, what's happened?”— Princess Diana, August 31, 1997
Who Was Princess Diana?
Diana Spencer was Princess of Wales and a beloved humanitarian known for her work with AIDS patients, land mine victims, and the homeless. Her accessibility and compassion made her 'the People's Princess.'
The Final Moments
Diana was critically injured when her car crashed in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris while being pursued by paparazzi. Rescue workers reported hearing her speak briefly after the crash.
Are These Words Verified?
French firefighter Xavier Gourmelon reported Diana saying 'My God, what's happened?' or 'Oh my God' at the scene. While he's a credible firsthand witness, other emergency responders gave varying accounts, and she lost consciousness shortly after, making the exact phrasing uncertain.
Sources
- firsthand Xavier Gourmelon (firefighter)
- newspaper The Independent, 2017 interview
- archive Operation Paget Report (official inquiry)
Legacy
Diana's death prompted an outpouring of global grief and sparked debate about press intrusion. Her sons William and Harry have continued her charitable work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Princess Diana’s last words?
“My God, what's happened?”
How did Princess Diana die?
Princess Diana died on August 31, 1997 at the age of 36. Cause of death: Car accident.
Were Princess Diana’s last words documented?
French firefighter Xavier Gourmelon reported Diana saying 'My God, what's happened?' or 'Oh my God' at the scene. While he's a credible firsthand witness, other emergency responders gave varying accounts, and she lost consciousness shortly after, making the exact phrasing uncertain.
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“O Lord God have pity on my soul.”
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