British Transport Police are searching for a MAGA influencer and her fiancé who are wanted for an alleged racial assault on a family in central London, after it was confirmed the pair have likely left the country.
The Alleged Station Assault
The incident occurred at Bond Street station on Saturday, October 11, at around 7:30pm. According to reports, a dispute began when a pushchair belonging to a family bumped into a woman. Officers state that a man then allegedly hurled racial abuse at the woman and her family.
It is further alleged that a woman, believed to be Melissa Rein Lively, then grabbed the victim by the hair. The victim reportedly attempted to defend herself by using a substance from a small bottle, which she claimed was pepper spray. The couple are said to have made lewd gestures and continued the racist abuse before leaving the area.
The International Manhunt
The wanted individuals have been named as Philip Ostermann and his fiancée, Melissa Rein Lively. Mr Ostermann is an associate director at Aequita, a Munich-based private equity firm.
The force confirmed that the couple departed the UK before its public appeal was issued last week. Enquiries suggest that Ostermann left Britain on October 14, while Lively followed ten days later on October 24.
A spokesperson for British Transport Police stated: "Officers completed a number of enquiries in an attempt to identify the man and woman after the incident was reported to police, followed by a media appeal that generated a significant response." They added that officers believe the pair do not reside in the UK and will "continue efforts to make contact with and speak to them" to determine the next steps.
Profile of the Accused
Melissa Rein Lively, 40, is a political consultant and public relations figure who actively sought the role of White House press secretary for Donald Trump's second term. She previously told Politico, "I’m a hair away from the White House. I do think I’m going to get it." The position ultimately went to Karoline Leavitt.
Both Lively and Ostermann regularly document their lavish lifestyle on social media. The police have released footage and images of the couple from the time of the alleged assault as part of their investigation.
The victim and her family are being kept regularly updated as the investigation continues.
