US expresses condolences following Queen Elizabeth II's death

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - The White House expressed condolences Thursday to the Royal Family and the British after long-serving monarch Queen Elizabeth II died.

"Our hearts and our thoughts go to the family members of the queen, goes to the people of United Kingdom," White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters.

US President Joe Biden is expected to address the queen’s passing later Thursday.

Elizabeth II, 96, was the longest-serving monarch in British history. Buckingham Palace said she "died peacefully" at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

"The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow," it added.

The queen had mobility and health issues for the past year stemming from old age. She had to cancel several engagements due to her health and her physician's advice.

Her final public appearance was during the Platinum Jubilee celebration in June as the monarch marked 70 years on the British throne. A statement issued mid-day Thursday said the queen was placed under "medical supervision" at Balmoral in Aberdeenshire, Scotland.