The Daily Star Ireland
Virginia Giuffre, a prominent figure in the fight against sexual abuse and trafficking, has died by suicide at her home in Neergabby, Western Australia, at the age of 41. Her family confirmed her death, stating that the lifelong trauma she endured became unbearable.
Giuffre became widely known for her role in exposing the sex trafficking operations of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. She alleged that Epstein and Maxwell groomed and abused her from the age of 16, and that she was trafficked to several powerful men, including Prince Andrew. In 2022, Prince Andrew settled a civil lawsuit filed by Giuffre without admitting wrongdoing.
Beyond her legal battles, Giuffre was a dedicated advocate for survivors of sexual abuse. She founded the nonprofit organization SOAR (Speak Out, Act, Reclaim) to support victims and raise awareness about sex trafficking.
Recent Challenges and Personal Struggles
In March 2025, Giuffre was involved in a car accident in Western Australia, where her vehicle collided with a school bus. She later posted on social media that she had been given four days to live due to kidney failure resulting from the crash. However, police described the incident as a minor collision with no serious injuries reported.
Giuffre had also been facing personal challenges, including a separation from her husband in August 2023 and allegations of domestic abuse. In February 2025, she was charged with breaching a family violence restraining order, with a court hearing scheduled for April.
Legacy and Tributes
Giuffre is survived by her three children. Her family described her as a “fierce warrior” who brought light to many survivors. Her lawyer, Sigrid McCawley, and publicist, Dini von Mueffling, remembered her as a courageous and compassionate individual whose strength inspired many.
Virginia Giuffre’s death has reignited discussions about the long-term impacts of sexual abuse and the importance of supporting survivors. Her advocacy work and legal actions played a significant role in bringing attention to the crimes of Epstein and Maxwell, and her legacy continues to influence the fight against sexual exploitation.
