American College Students Detained in Denmark Following Uber Dispute

Copenhagen, Denmark – Two American college students vacationing in Copenhagen for spring break have been arrested and charged with assault following a dispute with an Uber driver. The students, identified as Owen Ray, a 19-year-old from Miami University in Ohio, and an unnamed friend, are currently involved in legal proceedings that have resulted in their detainment for two weeks.

Incident Details

The altercation began when the students entered the wrong address into the Uber app while trying to reach their destination. As a result of the confusion, the driver reportedly refused to take them to their desired location. After a confrontation ensued when they exited the car, Ray and his friend claimed that the driver threatened them before assaulting Ray himself. According to their representatives, the incident was recorded via the vehicle's dashcam and has become part of the ongoing legal examination.

In the aftermath of this incident, the students attempted to return to the United States but were detained at Copenhagen airport by local police. “On March 31, two American citizens were arrested in Copenhagen and subsequently charged,” a spokesperson for the Copenhagen Police confirmed. The students faced charges of common assault and have since been kept in pre-trial detention, which has been extended until at least April 24. #### Family Concerns

Ray's family is advocating for his release and expressing concerns over Danish authorities confiscating his passport, which has prevented him from returning home. In a statement, Owen's parents, Andy Ray and Sara Buchen-Ray, shared their relief over his release from prison yet emphasized their worry about his inability to leave Denmark. They emphasized, "The facts make clear that Owen is the victim in this case, and we urge Danish officials to allow him to return home to the United States without delay."

U.S. Government Involvement

The U.S. State Department is aware of the situation and is providing consular assistance to the detained students. A spokesperson stated, “The Department has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens abroad,” indicating that support will continue as the process unfolds.

Uber's Response

In response to the incident, Uber issued a statement affirming their commitment to taking reports of violence seriously. They have referred any inquiries about the investigation directly to the Danish police.

Broader Context

This incident occurs amidst rising political tensions between the United States and Denmark concerning the future of Greenland, a territory rich in resources. Relations between the two NATO allies have been strained following prior threats made by former President Donald Trump about acquiring Greenland.

As the situation develops, many observers are watching closely, both for its implications on U.S.-Danish relations and for the outcome of the legal matters concerning the detained students.