Sole Survivor of Princess Diana Crash: Trevor Rees-Jones
In 1997, a tragic crash took the life of Princess Diana, capturing the world’s attention. The crash’s lone survivor was Trevor Rees-Jones, the former bodyguard of the Princess of Wales. Rees-Jones emerged from the accident with life-changing injuries.
Who is Trevor Rees-Jones?
Trevor Rees-Jones was born on March 3, 1968, in Rinteln, Germany. He grew up as the middle son of Colin Rees, a British Army surgeon, and his wife Gill, a nurse. The family relocated to Oswestry, a town near the Welsh border, when Trevor was ten years old. He attended Fitzalan School and later joined the 1st Battalion Parachute Regiment after finishing school.
Becoming Princess Diana’s Bodyguard
Rees-Jones started working as a private security guard for Mohammed al-Fayed, the owner of Harrods, and later Princess Diana. He provided security for al-Fayed’s son Dodi, and eventually for Princess Diana herself. It was during a summer holiday in 1997 that tragedy struck.
The Tragic Crash
On August 30, 1997, Dodi and Diana were in Paris after spending time on Dodi’s yacht. They faced paparazzi attention and attempted to escape them. However, their attempt led to a devastating crash in the Pont de l’Alma underpass. The crash claimed the lives of Dodi and the driver, and Diana passed away shortly after in the hospital.
Rees-Jones’ Injuries
Trevor Rees-Jones suffered severe injuries in the crash, spending ten days in a coma. He endured extensive injuries to his face and chest, with every bone in his face broken. Surgeons used 150 pieces of titanium to reconstruct his shattered face. He still carries the scars from that fateful day and experiences memory loss related to the crash.
Life After the Crash
Today, Trevor Rees-Jones reportedly holds the position of global head of security at AstraZeneca, a prominent vaccine company. He has chosen a quieter life away from the limelight and resides in Shrewsbury. Despite the challenges he faced, he has found ways to move forward.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
In the years following the crash, Trevor Rees-Jones left his job with al-Fayed and focused on rebuilding his life. He published a book detailing his experiences and went through legal battles related to the crash. He remarried and engaged in various activities, including playing rugby and working as a security consultant.
Remembering the Past
During investigations and inquests, Rees-Jones provided insights into the events leading up to the crash. He mentioned his role in Princess Diana’s security and the circumstances of that fateful night. Despite facing criticism and claims, he has maintained his commitment to telling the truth.
The story of Trevor Rees-Jones reminds us of the profound impact of tragic events and the strength of individuals in overcoming adversity.