Marcus Sarjeant Fires Shots at Queen Elizabeth II
June 13th, 1981
June 13th, 1981
How Long Ago?
43 years, 9 months, 2 days ago
Location
London, England
Category
Politics & Government
People
- Queen Elizabeth II
- Marcus Sarjeant
Links & References
Tags
Marcus Sarjeant Fires Shots at Queen Elizabeth II
During the Trooping the Colour ceremony in London, teenager Marcus Sarjeant fired six blank shots towards Queen Elizabeth II, who was riding in a royal procession. The incident startled the crowd and prompted immediate security measures. Sarjeant was quickly apprehended and later revealed that he sought publicity.
Teenager fired six blank shots at the Queen.
The ceremony celebrates the Queen's official birthday.
Marcus Sarjeant sought publicity through his actions.
Security measures were urgently reviewed after the incident.
What Happened?
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.
Why Does it Matter?
The incident is interesting due to its implications for royal security and public safety. After this event, the British monarchy faced increased scrutiny regarding security measures during public appearances. This incident also highlighted the tensions within society during the 1980s, offering insight into the motivations of individuals seeking attention in radical ways. It forced the institution to rethink its presentation to the public, ensuring both the safety of royal family members and the continuation of traditional public ceremonies.
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