Although she is considered one of the most discreet members of the British Royal Family, Princess Anne has experienced several moments that have marked her forever. However, to this day, many young people are unaware of what happened to her on that fateful March 20, 1974, one of the hardest days of her life.
Today, despite her advanced age, King Charles III’s sister continues to be one of the most active and dedicated royals in the institution. So much so that, at 75 years old (75 años), she still carries out a demanding public schedule and keeps firm commitments to charitable, sports, and social causes.
| Europa Press
In fact, since January 2024, Princess Anne has significantly increased her number of commitments. This way, the royal has made it very clear that her intention is to keep serving the Crown as long as her health allows her to do so.
However, despite her great media impact, many young Britons are unaware that, 51 years ago, she was the victim of an attempted kidnapping. A catastrophe that, thanks to Ronnie Russell, did not take place.
Everything that happened the day Princess Anne was almost kidnapped in the heart of London
On March 20, 1974, Princess Anne experienced one of the most tense episodes of her life when she was the victim of an attempted kidnapping on The Mall, London. That day, Queen Elizabeth II’s daughter was returning from a charity event with her then-husband when an armed man burst into their path.
| Instagram, @theroyalfamily
Ian Ball, 26 years old (26 años), stopped the vehicle intending to hold the princess and later demand three million pounds from Queen Elizabeth as ransom. However, when he saw that four people tried to stop him, he did not hesitate to open fire on them.
In the midst of the chaos, Ronnie “The Old Man” Russell appeared, whose quick intervention was decisive for Charles III’s sister. The citizen was driving in the area when he saw the situation and did not hesitate to stop to help Princess Anne.
| SWNS
Nevertheless, despite the striker’s threats, Russell quickly confronted him and delivered three forceful blows that completely thwarted all his kidnapping plans.
After his arrest, Ian Ball was taken to the Old Bailey court, where he admitted to having tried to kidnap Anne and having shot several people. His words led the judge to order his detention “without time limit” under the Mental Health Act. Since then, he has remained in a maximum-security hospital.
However, a few weeks ago, Ball was released on parole at 77 years old (77 años) after leaving Broadmoor. This news has not been officially released, but it has sparked a strong debate in the United Kingdom.
Today, this harsh episode in Princess Anne’s life remains practically hidden from most young Britons. This chapter perfectly reflects the strength and composure with which she has always faced personal and family challenges.