In 1989, Romanian Military and Protesters Unite to Overthrow and Kill Romanian President and His Family: Historic Event During George H. W. Bush's Presidency

Ceaușescu and his wife Elena fled the capital by helicopter to their residence in Snagov and then to Târgoviște. After abandoning the helicopter, they were captured by the police and handed over to the army. On Christmas Day 1989, they were tried by a mock court, found guilty of various charges, and executed by a firing squad. Their hasty trial and execution were televised, marking a dramatic end to their rule and a pivotal moment in Romanian history.