A spokesperson for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke, and Duchess of Sussex, has made a startling claim of a “near catastrophic car chase” involving the couple and paparazzi.
The incident occurred following their attendance at an awards ceremony in New York City on Tuesday. The spokesperson stated that the relentless pursuit lasted for over two hours and resulted in multiple near collisions.
The New York Police Department confirmed the occurrence of an incident and acknowledged the challenging circumstances created by numerous photographers during Harry and Meghan’s transportation.
No injuries or arrests were reported, and Buckingham Palace has not provided a comment on the matter.
Eyewitnesses have alleged that the car chase involved around six vehicles, with reckless driving maneuvers such as running red lights, driving on the sidewalk, blocking moves, reversing down one-way streets, and even taking photographs while driving.
The situation was described as chaotic, prompting the couple, accompanied by Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, to seek refuge at a Manhattan police station.
According to sources, the couple had been staying at a friend’s residence and opted for a New York taxi as their mode of transportation.
However, their attempt to remain inconspicuous was short-lived as photographers recognized them, prompting a return to their own security vehicles.
The cab driver, Sukhcharn Singh, who briefly carried the couple and Ms. Ragland, recounted a calm and uneventful 10-minute journey, denying the portrayal of a high-speed chase.
Singh emphasized that he did not feel endangered and promptly returned the passengers to the police station at the request of their security officer.
While Prince Harry and Meghan employ private security while in the United States, Harry is currently engaged in a legal battle in London regarding Metropolitan Police protection for his family while they are in the UK.
The couple’s spokesperson emphasized the importance of safety, stating, “While being a public figure comes with a level of interest from the public, it should never come at the cost of anyone’s safety.”
They also expressed concern about the dissemination of images obtained through intrusive practices.
This incident raises questions about the adequacy of Harry and Meghan’s security arrangements in the United States.
Author of the book “Prince Harry: The Inside Story,” Duncan Larcombe, commented on the apparent lapse, noting that it contrasts with the protection provided to Harry in the UK.
The behavior of the paparazzi in this instance has prompted discussions about their continued operation in such a manner.
The tragedy of Princess Diana’s death in a 1997 car crash while being pursued by photographers serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by aggressive paparazzi.
Prince Harry has previously spoken out about the relentless pursuit and harassment his mother endured. He referred to the paparazzi as “a pack of dogs” who relentlessly hounded her.
Currently embroiled in legal battles against British tabloids, including allegations of phone hacking and unlawful gathering of information, Prince Harry continues his mission to challenge and transform the media landscape.
His commitment to changing the way the media operates has become his life’s work.
Next month, Prince Harry is scheduled to appear in a London court to provide evidence in a phone hacking case.
The couple’s decision to step down from royal duties and relocate to the United States in 2020 was partly influenced by the intense scrutiny and harassment they experienced from the UK tabloids.
