Half a century ago, Princess Anne, the only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II, faced a life-or-death situation when a gunman tried to kidnap her.
On March 20, 1974, an unprecedented event shook the British Royal Family and the world.
The attempted kidnapping of Princess Anne
Ian Ball, a disturbed individual, carried out the attempted kidnapping. Princess Anne and her husband, Mark Phillips, were returning to Buckingham Palace from an event when Ball intercepted their limousine near Clarence House.
Armed and determined, Ball opened fire and attempted to force his way into the vehicle carrying the Princess and her husband.
The quick intervention of Inspector Beaton, who was shot several times while protecting the royal couple, and the bravery of the Princess, who refused to give in to the kidnapper’s demands with her famous “Not bloody likely!” retort, were crucial in thwarting the kidnapping.
Journalist Brian McConnell, who was following the couple, also tried to stop Ball and was injured, as were driver Alex Callender and police officer Michael Hills.
The situation ended when boxer Ronnie Russell, who happened to be present, knocked Ball down with a decisive punch, allowing agent Peter Edmonds to subdue him.
Ball, who had planned to take the princess to a house in central London and demand a ransom of three million pounds.
Recognition and Aftermath
The wounded were awarded the George Medal for gallantry. Ball, who showed no remorse for his actions, was convicted of attempted murder and kidnapping.
To this day, he remains detained at Broadmoor Hospital under the Mental Health Act.
This incident highlights the unpredictability of royal security and the bravery of those who protect the monarchy.
Fifty years to the day, the courage and resilience of Princess Anne and the heroes who prevented a greater tragedy will be remembered.