Two U.S. College Students Released from Jail in Denmark Following Alleged Altercation with Uber Driver

Background of the Incident

Copenhagen, Denmark — Two college students from the United States have been released from a Danish jail after being detained for nearly two weeks following an alleged altercation with an Uber driver during a spring break trip. Owen Ray, a 19-year-old student from Miami University of Ohio, and his unnamed friend were apprehended at Copenhagen Airport on April 1 after an incident that occurred on March 31. ## Details of the Altercation

According to Jordan Finfer, a U.S.-based attorney representing Ray's family, the two students were in an Uber when they mistakenly entered the wrong address for their destination. When they requested the driver to take them elsewhere, he allegedly refused. The situation escalated, leading to an altercation after all parties exited the vehicle.

Finfer recounted that Ray reported the driver kicked him in the groin, prompting Ray to push the driver away, which reportedly resulted in the driver falling to the ground. Following the incident, Ray and his friend fled the scene.

Arrest and Detention

The following day, on April 1, while attempting to return home, Danish police detained the students at Copenhagen Airport, branding them as "flight risks" and claiming they intended to evade responsibility for the incident. They were initially subjected to a 10-day pre-trial detention, which was later extended until April 24. ## Family's Statement

After their release, Owen Ray's family expressed relief but reiterated their concerns for their son's situation. "We are relieved that Owen has been released from a Danish prison following the unprovoked assault he and his friend suffered at the hands of an Uber driver," said Ray's parents, Andy Ray and Sara Buchen-Ray, in a statement. They emphasized that their son is innocent and urged authorities to allow his immediate return to the United States.

"We want our son home to celebrate Easter with us this week,” they added.

Police and Uber Statements

Copenhagen police confirmed the students were charged with common assault. In response, Uber issued a statement highlighting their commitment to safety and the seriousness of violence reports. They stated that any inquiries about the ongoing investigation should be directed to local authorities.

U.S. State Department Involvement

The U.S. State Department issued a statement acknowledging the situation and confirmed that staff at the embassy in Copenhagen are providing consular assistance to the detained students. They emphasized the importance of the safety and security of U.S. citizens abroad but noted that privacy considerations restricted further comments on the case.

Conclusion

As of now, both students remain in Denmark, with their passports reportedly held by Danish authorities. Their case has garnered attention as they navigate the legal proceedings in a foreign country while awaiting resolution.