Saudi Prince Al-Waleed dies after 20 years in coma following horror London crash

A Saudi prince who spent 20 years in a coma after a tragic car accident in London has died, his father has said.

Prince Al Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, the eldest son of Prince Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, passed away at the age of 36. He was dubbed the "Sleeping Prince" after spending more than two decades in a coma, following a tragic accident at the age of 15, when he was studying as a military cadet in London.

He suffered severe brain injuries and internal bleeding in the accident, and despite urgent medical care, he never regained full consciousness. He was hospitalised at King Abdulaziz Medical City and was kept on a ventilator until his death.

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His heartbroken dad confirmed the news of his passing on social media, writing, "With hearts believing in Allah 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."

Prince Khaled remained close to his son over the years and opposed withdrawing life support. During a hospital visit alongside his sons Saud and Mohammed, Prince Al-Waleed's younger brothers, Prince Khaled asked for prayers that he might recover and wake up from his coma.

Despite some minor physical responses from the prince giving hope that he could be recovering, he remained in a critical condition until his passing. His hospital room was often frequented by visitors offering prayers and support.

Funeral prayers for the prince will be held on Sunday at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh. After Prince Khaled's announcement on X, many people shared their condolences.