American College Students Detained in Denmark Following Uber Incident During Spring Break

American College Students Detained in Denmark Following Uber Incident During Spring Break

Two American college students are facing detention in Denmark after an alleged altercation involving an Uber driver while on their spring break trip. Owen Ray, 19, and a friend, both U.S. citizens, were apprehended at Copenhagen Airport on April 1, as confirmed by Ray’s family. Ray is a student at Miami University in Ohio, studying abroad and taking advantage of a spring break getaway.

According to a spokesperson for Ray’s family, the students were victims of an unprovoked verbal and physical assault initiated by the Uber driver in Denmark. The spokesperson emphasized that Ray and his friend did not provoke the altercation in any way.

Miami University in Ohio has not provided any immediate comment regarding the situation reported by Fox News Digital.

The Incident Escalates

On March 31, both students were in an Uber when Ray mistakenly entered the wrong address in the Uber app. His mother, Sara Buchen-Ray, relayed that he asked the driver to pull over so they could exit the vehicle. However, the situation quickly escalated when the Uber driver allegedly threatened to call the police and subsequently kicked Ray in a sensitive area.

In response, Ray reportedly pushed the driver away, allowing both friends to escape the vehicle. They returned to their hotel, planning to fly home the following morning after cleaning up from the incident.

Arrest and Charges

The next day, upon arriving at Copenhagen Airport, the two students were arrested by local police. The family’s spokesperson stated their plea to the Danish authorities, urging them to recognize Owen’s innocence and facilitate his release. The family expressed their heartbreak, emphasizing their wish for their son to celebrate Easter together.

Later that day, both students appeared before a judge and were charged with common assault. Copenhagen police confirmed to Fox News Digital that the students have been sentenced to 10 days of pre-trial detention, which has now been extended to April 24.

Support from U.S. Authorities

The U.S. State Department has acknowledged media reports concerning the detention of the two U.S. citizens in Denmark. A department representative stated that the embassy staff in Copenhagen is providing necessary consular assistance. Ensuring the safety and security of U.S. citizens abroad ranks as the department’s highest priority.

Ray’s attorney, based in Denmark, has yet to respond to inquiries from Fox News Digital.

Uber’s Stance on Safety

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Uber emphasized its commitment to the safety of all users of its app. The company took the matter seriously, noting that the driver reported being assaulted by the passengers, who were later arrested by Danish authorities.

Concerns for American Travelers

The recent incident raises concerns for American travelers, especially during busy travel times like spring break. The situation highlights the potential dangers that can arise during vacations, and parents of college students may find this alarming. Awareness and caution are crucial when navigating unfamiliar environments, particularly when ride-sharing services are involved.

A Summer of Awareness

The incident underscores the importance of being vigilant while traveling abroad. Spring break is often associated with fun and adventure, but unfortunate incidents can occur. Students should remain cautious and informed about local customs, laws, and the operations of services they use.

The story of Owen Ray and his friend serves as a reminder that misunderstandings can quickly escalate into serious situations. Travelers are encouraged to stay aware of their surroundings and prioritize safety at all times, especially in foreign countries.