In a dramatic incident during the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony, which celebrates the official birthday of Queen Elizabeth II, a young man named Marcus Sarjeant discharged six blank shots from a starting pistol while the Queen was on horseback, surrounded by members of the royal family. This occurred in Horse Guards Parade, an event attended by thousands, including dignitaries and members of the public. The sound of the shots caused a moment of panic but was quickly controlled by police. Sarjeant, aged 17 at the time, was arrested on the spot. During subsequent interviews, he indicated that his motive was to gain notoriety, reflecting broader themes of youth discontent and a desire for attention.Marcus Sarjeant's actions marked a significant moment in British royal security, leading to an evaluation and enhancement of security protocols at public royal events. His use of blanks meant that no one was physically harmed, but the psychological impact on the Queen, her family, and the public was considerable. The monarchy, often seen as a stable institution, faced new challenges concerning public perception and safety. In the aftermath of the incident, Sarjeant was charged and later sentenced to five years in prison for his actions, which raised questions about mental health and the motivations behind such acts.