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Photographer Ben McDonald accused Taylor Swift’s father, Scott Swift, of punching him at Neutral Bay Wharf in Sydney in the early hours of February 27, 2024, after the singer’s final Australian Eras Tour show. Swift’s representative gave a different account of the encounter. New South Wales Police later said they detected no offences and required no further action; the Associated Press reported that Swift would not be charged.
What did the photographer allege?
McDonald, who identified himself as chief executive of Matrix Media Group, said he was photographing Swift’s party as it left a yacht after a harbour cruise. He alleged that security personnel pushed umbrellas into him and his camera, then Scott Swift punched him. McDonald said Taylor Swift had already entered a car. Speaking to the Australian Associated Press, McDonald said: “He punched me in the chops.” These are McDonald’s allegations, not findings established by police or a court. SBS News reported that McDonald initially thought the man was a local security contractor before recognizing him in photos.
What did police initially say?
Police said they had been told that a 71-year-old man allegedly assaulted a 51-year-old man at Neutral Bay Wharf at about 2:30 a.m. on February 27, then left. The initial statement, reported by ABC News Australia, did not name either person. Police said the 51-year-old had reported the incident and did not require medical treatment.
How did Taylor Swift’s representative respond?
A spokesperson for Swift said: “Two individuals were aggressively pushing their way towards Taylor, grabbing at her security personnel, and threatening to throw a female staff member into the water.” That statement presents the party’s account of the interaction. It does not establish who initiated contact or resolve McDonald’s allegation.
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What was the police outcome?
In March 2024, New South Wales Police concluded the investigation. The Associated Press reported the police statement: “No offences were detected, and the investigation was concluded with no further police action required.” AP also reported that Scott Swift would not be charged. This was the reported investigative disposition—not a court ruling determining whether the alleged punch occurred. Associated Press
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When did the incident happen?
- February 26, 2024: Swift’s final Sydney show concluded the Australian tour leg. ABC reported that she had performed four sold-out Sydney shows.
- Early February 27: After a harbour cruise, the reported encounter took place at Neutral Bay Wharf at about 2:30 a.m.
- February 27: ABC and SBS reported McDonald’s allegation and the spokesperson’s response as police inquiries continued.
- March 2024: Police reported no offences detected and no further action required; AP reported there would be no charge.
The Australian tour comprised seven sold-out stadium concerts and drew more than 600,000 fans, according to SBS. Those figures describe the tour, not the incident.
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