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Diana, Princess of Wales, dies in a car crash in a road tunnel in Paris

In the early hours of 31 August 1997, Diana, Princess of Wales, died from injuries sustained in a car crash in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris, France.

In the early hours of 31 August 1997, Diana, Princess of Wales, died from injuries sustained in a car crash in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris, France. Dodi Fayed, Diana's partner, and the driver, Mercedes-Benz chauffeur Henri Paul, were both found dead inside the car. Diana's bodyguard, Trevor Rees-Jones, was the only survivor of the crash, albeit seriously injured. The subsequent investigation into the crash remained controversial for decades, with many challenging the official narrative of Diana's death.

In 1999, a French investigation concluded that Paul, who was intoxicated and under the influence of prescription drugs, lost control of the vehicle at high speed. The report held him solely responsible for the crash.

Historical Significance

In the early hours of 31 August 1997, Diana, Princess of Wales, died from injuries sustained in a car crash in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris, France.

Key People

Diana Spencer

Member of the British royal family

Member of the British royal family

–

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happened on August 31, 1997?
In the early hours of 31 August 1997, Diana, Princess of Wales, died from injuries sustained in a car crash in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris, France. Dodi Fayed, Diana's partner, and the driver, Mercedes-Benz chauffeur Henri Paul, were both found dead inside the car. Diana's bodyguard, Trevor Rees-Jones, was the only survivor of the crash, albeit seriously injured.
Why is Diana, Princess of Wales, dies in a car crash in a road tunnel in Paris significant?
In the early hours of 31 August 1997, Diana, Princess of Wales, died from injuries sustained in a car crash in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris, France.
Who was involved in Diana, Princess of Wales, dies in a car crash in a road tunnel in Paris?
Key figures include Diana Spencer (Member of the British royal family).

Explore More

August 31 in HistoryYear 1997