Princess Diana’s passing remains one of the most heartbreaking moments in modern royal history.

At just 36 years old, the Princess of Wales died in a car crash in Paris on August 31, 1997. The accident also claimed the lives of her partner Dodi Fayed and driver Henri Paul.

An investigation later determined that Diana’s death was caused by severe injuries sustained in the crash. Paul, who was over the drink-driving limit, was behind the wheel as the car was pursued by paparazzi into the Alma Tunnel.

Medical crews fought to save her life, resuscitating her more than once at the scene. But despite their efforts, Diana was pronounced dead after arriving at the hospital.

In a deeply moving gesture, a photograph of her sons, Princes William and Harry, was placed in her hands soon after her passing.

Diana’s Final Summer

In the weeks leading up to her death, Diana spent time in Europe, including a holiday in the South of France with William and Harry. Photographs from that trip showed her enjoying the sunshine in St Tropez, along with Dodi Fayed, with whom she was reportedly growing closer.

They stayed at Mohamed Al-Fayed’s lavish 30-bedroom villa, and the princess was also spotted relaxing on the family’s yacht.

That summer, Diana attended the memorial service for Gianni Versace in Milan and made headlines in Bosnia, where she carried out a landmine walk to raise awareness for victims. She later returned to the South of France, traveled to Sardinia, and ultimately to Paris with Dodi.