Queen Elizabeth II dies at age 96

SCOTLAND – Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, has died at the age of 96.

The Royal Family took to social media Thursday afternoon, saying, “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.”

The queen is preceded in death by her husband of more than 70 years, Prince Philip, who died at the age of 99 on April 9, 2021.

Maryland Governor Larry Hogan released the following statement Thursday afternoon:

“Marylanders join the nation and the world in mourning the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II—an iconic and beloved leader whose long life of service commands immeasurable respect and admiration. She touched many lives, and many hearts too.

“The Queen took great care over the last seven decades to deepen the meaning of the Special Relationship between the United States and Great Britain. Maryland was proud to welcome Her Majesty during her first state visit to our country in 1957, and again during her last state visit here in 2007.

“The First Lady and I send our condolences to the Royal Family and to the British people.”

U.S. Senator Tim Kaine also released the following statement:

“Queen Elizabeth II was beloved by millions, and I mourn with the people of the United Kingdom today. Her Majesty visited Virginia in 2007 while I was Governor, two weeks after the Virginia Tech shooting, and she grieved with us then, giving us a moment to unite around during an incredibly difficult time. Her kindness and grace will be missed in the United Kingdom, in Virginia, and across the world.”