May 26th was a day of celebration turned into tragedy when a car crashed into a crowd during Liverpool Football Club’s Premier League victory parade on Water Street. 109 individuals were injured in the mishap, ranging from age 9 to 78, at least 50 were admitted to the hospital, of which four were children.
The festive atmosphere had drawn thousands of supporters, families, and tourists, many of whom had gathered early to witness their teams’ moment of glory. Flags, banners, and cheers quickly turned into chaos as people tried to flee the scene. Panic and confusion swept through the crowd almost instantly.
The 54-year-old suspect, Paul Doyle, a retired Royal Marine from West Derby, was arrested at the scene. Prosecutors allege Doyle had deliberately used his grey Ford Galaxy as a weapon and driven after an ambulance through a roadblock. He rammed into the dense crowd. He has been charged with several offenses, including dangerous driving and grievous bodily harm with intent.
Witnesses described the horrific scene, with some reporting the sound of “bumps” as the car struck pedestrians. Emergency services responded rapidly, with the North West Air Ambulance having flown into the area and tents being set up nearby. The area was cleared by 9:30 pm.
Doyle appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on May 30, visibly distraught, and was remanded into custody. He is to appear for a plea hearing on August 14 and has a provisional trial date set for November 24.
IN its aftermath, Liverpool FC rescheduled further title celebrations. Community leaders and officials like Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III sympathized with the victims. Merseyside Police continue their inquiry, urging anyone who has information to come forward.
The city reels, converting a moment of victory to one of tragedy.