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The celebrity photo agency at the centre of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's alleged 'near catastrophic' car chase through New York has lashed out at claims its photographers aggressively pursued the couple.
Backgrid USA Inc released a statement after Tuesday night's 'car chase', advising they have reviewed footage and photographs taken on the night.
They have dismissed claims their photographers behaved in a dangerous manner, instead pointing the finger back at the royal couple.
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"We are aware of Prince Harry's statement regarding an alleged 'near catastrophic car chase' involving himself, Meghan Markle, and her mother, in New York City on Tuesday night," Backgrid USA Inc said as per a statement via Page Six.
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"We want to clarify that we have received photos and videos of last night's events from four freelance photographers, three of whom were in cars and one of whom was riding a bicycle."
The photography company collated photos and accounts given by these freelance contributors, reporting that they did not match the claims made by the Royal pair.
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Instead, Backgrid USA reported 'a few of the photos even show Meghan Markle smiling inside a cab'.
It then lashed out at the Sussexes' own security team.
Backgrid claimed 'one of the four SUVs' from their security team was 'driving in a manner that could be perceived as reckless'.
"The vehicle was seen blocking off streets, and in one video, it is shown being pulled over by the police," Backgrid USA said.
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"We understand that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's security detail had a job to do... We do, however, want to point out that according to the photographers present, there were no near-collisions or near-crashes during this incident."
The statement flies in the face of claims made by the Sussexes, who described the photographers following them as 'highly aggressive' and claimed the chase lasted more than two hours on May 16.
Backgrid's claims have also been confirmed by the New York cab driver who had the unexpected surprise of the royals clambering into his backseat on Tuesday.
Cab driver Sukhcharn Singh confirmed to the Washington Post he was waved down outside a police station at around 11pm for a fare.
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His recollection of the alleged chase was far different from the Sussexes tale.
"I don’t think I would call it a chase," Singh said.
"I never felt like I was in danger. It wasn’t like a car chase in a movie."
He added: "They were quiet and seemed scared but it’s New York – it’s safe. They kept following us and were coming next to the car. They took pictures as we stopped and were filming us."
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When asked by the BBC if the incident was a 'near-catastrophic chase' he replied: "I don’t think that’s true. I think that’s all exaggerated."
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were approached for comment.
Featured Image Credit: dpa picture alliance / Alamy. Paul Marriott / AlamyTopics: Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Royal Family, News, US News, UK News