The Night's Details
Walking alone in the streets of London on Valentine's Day (no peace for the single), Styles was confronted by multiple men who later mugged him. Initially he was walking by and noticed the footsteps of gravel behind him. Taking out his headphones and becoming more aware of the situation, he began to cross the road to avoid confrintation. They soon followed his lead and crossed after him. Trying a second time to get away (by crossing the street), he soon noticed they proceeded to follow him back over to the other side. Knowing his options were limited (as not a soul was in sight), he came over as they called out for his attention.
They initially asked if he had drugs on him/wanted drugs off them. When he responded no to both request, they began asking what personal items he had on him. All the while, showing Styles a decently sized knife - to avoid any potential getaways.
Who He Told About The Encounter?
While we heard the full account of the incident on the "Howard Stern Show", we first learned of this attack from his account with "Today" host Carson Daly. As this happened a couple weeks ago, it took him a while to give us the full details regarding the entirity of the event. From Daly, we found out about the mugging, and how (thankfully) Styles ended up safe from harm.
What Did The Muggers Take?
As his robbery was taking place, the individuals asked Styles what he had on him. Initially responding with "nothing", he soon discovered that wouldn't appease them. He proceeded to get the cash he had in his pocket out. When the muggers noticed Style's headphone jacks - they asked him to hand over his phone. Willing to hand over the phone, Styles was put into a severe panic when they asked him to unlock his phone.
Knowing his status (and potential information he had on his phone), he couldn't risk handing the muggers his unlocked phone. Whether it was access to new music, racey photos, or account information, one thing was clear - Styles was not letting them get away with an unlocked phone.
The Escape
When the drama of the muggers inquiring an unlocked phone hit Styles, he proceeded to think fast about his next steps. Noticing uncoming traffic (two cars) were making there way past, he threw himself infront, hoping to draw attention or potentially get into one of the vehicles. While the instict to drive away with a stranger failed, it did give him proper distance between the muggers and his safety. It was then he began racing up the hill...
Thankfully Styles is safe and with phone-in-hand. The only thing he lost was cash - but in the grand scheme of potential circumstances, he was lucky!