Nearly 28 years after the tragic car crash that claimed the life of Princess Diana, discussion continues about the events of that fateful night. Diana, aged 36, was traveling in Paris with her partner, Dodi Fayed, their driver Henri Paul, and bodyguard Trevor Rees-Jones in the early hours of August 31, 1997.
The vehicle was being pursued by photographers as it moved through the Pont de l’Alma underpass. Henri Paul, who was reportedly over the legal alcohol limit for driving in France, lost control, and the car crashed into a column. Paul and Fayed were killed instantly, while Diana and Rees-Jones sustained critical injuries. Diana was rushed to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 4 a.m.
Despite nearly three decades passing, the circumstances surrounding the crash are still the subject of much discussion. Steve Davies, Diana’s former chauffeur, has shared his reflections, saying that had he been driving that night, he believes he could have kept her safe. “I’d have taken a bullet for Diana. My job was my life,” Davies told The Sun. “I was always there for her. I went from having the dream job to having to start again from scratch.”
Davies also explained that he only learned why he had been dismissed from his role after watching the Netflix series The Crown. According to reports, journalist Martin Bashir spread false claims suggesting Davies had leaked information about Diana to the press, which contributed to his dismissal.
Ken Wharfe, Diana’s former personal protection officer from 1987 to 1993, has also commented on the tragedy, emphasizing the importance of security decisions in the months leading up to her death. Wharfe noted that Diana’s decision to dismiss her Scotland Yard security team after separating from Prince Charles in 1992 may have left her more vulnerable than intended. He shared that he had advised Diana against letting the team go, highlighting the balance she sought between privacy and protection.
While speculation about what might have been will likely continue, those who worked closely with Princess Diana continue to reflect on her life and legacy with respect and admiration.
