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Prosecutors Comment on Probe

Text of the statement by the Paris prosecutor's office about the investigation of the car crash that killed Princess Diana:

"The investigation is developing so as to reveal the exact circumstances surrounding the accident of Aug. 31, 1997, and the behavior of the photographers who were present at the scene.

"Concerning the first point, there have been many observations and testimony from witnesses as well as the photographers currently in detention. Searches have also been conducted at the headquarters of several photo agencies in order to eventually seize any photographs which they may have received of the accident and the chase, and which might constitute evidence.

"Further investigations have been ordered to determine the context of the chase and to assess the behavior of the driver of the car in order to know how he may have been affected on the road, not only by the pursuing vehicles but also by any other factor. In this regard, the analysis of his blood has revealed that the alcohol level was illegal.

"Testimony from the surviving passenger will furthermore be very important, but it has not yet been possible to proceed because of his condition.

"On the second point, the investigation has allowed (us) to determine in a more precise manner the behavior of certain people who did not give the aid and assistance normally required in case of an accident on a public road.

"When the 48-hour detention period expires, it is conceivable that we will request a judicial inquiry. The charges to be filed cannot be definitively established until the investigation in progress has been closed."