The question, “What happened to Michael Fagan who broke into the Palace,” still sparks curiosity decades later. This audacious intruder managed to scale the walls of Buckingham Palace and wander its halls undisturbed, even having a conversation with Queen Elizabeth II herself. His story is a bizarre blend of social commentary and sheer audacity, leaving many wondering about the man and the aftermath of his infamous intrusion.
The Night Michael Fagan Became a Royal Intruder
The most gripping aspect of “What happened to Michael Fagan who broke into the Palace” revolves around his remarkable access and the seemingly effortless way he navigated the royal residence. In the early hours of July 9, 1982, Michael Fagan, a then 31-year-old unemployed painter and decorator, scaled the 14-foot perimeter wall of Buckingham Palace. His initial goal, he later claimed, was simply to get an autograph from the Queen, believing he had a message for her from the unemployed. This act, while illegal, was driven by a complex mix of desperation and a profound disconnect he felt with the establishment.
Fagan’s infiltration was alarmingly simple, highlighting significant security flaws. He climbed a drainpipe, squeezed through an unlocked window, and found himself inside. The palace, meant to be a fortress, was surprisingly vulnerable. He managed to explore several rooms, including the State Apartments, before eventually finding himself in the Queen’s private bedroom. Here, he sat on her bed, and when the Queen awoke, they engaged in a brief, surreal conversation. The Queen reportedly offered him a cigarette and used a panic button to alert staff. The fact that an ordinary citizen could reach the monarch’s personal chambers without immediate apprehension is a staggering testament to the security lapses of the time.
His brief but unforgettable encounter with the monarch was not his first time inside the palace that week. In fact, Fagan had already broken in a few days prior, consuming a bottle of wine and raiding the pantry before leaving again undetected. This repetition underscores the systemic issues with security protocols. His exploits involved:
- Scaling the palace walls.
- Navigating the interior unnoticed.
- Directly interacting with Queen Elizabeth II.
The police response, when it finally came, was swift but somewhat bewildered. Fagan was apprehended by an undercover officer and a footman who arrived before the police. The subsequent legal proceedings were complicated. He was initially charged with burglary and criminal damage, but these charges were later dropped. Instead, he was held under the Mental Health Act. This outcome has led to much speculation about what truly happened to Michael Fagan and the broader implications of his actions.
To understand the full scope of the events and the societal context surrounding Michael Fagan’s palace break-in, explore the detailed accounts provided in the source material referenced in the subsequent section.