A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after driving a car into a crowd of football fans during Liverpool’s Premier League victory parade. The vehicle, a Ford Galaxy, bypassed a roadblock by tailgating an ambulance that was responding to an emergency involving a suspected heart attack.
Authorities confirmed that the 53-year-old driver, from the West Derby area of Liverpool, is also being held on suspicion of dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs. The incident occurred just after 6:00 PM BST on Bank Holiday Monday on Water Street, in the heart of the city where thousands had gathered to celebrate Liverpool’s second Premier League title and 20th top-flight championship.
Emergency services treated 65 people, including children, with 50 requiring hospital care. Eleven remain hospitalized, all reported to be in stable condition. Senior police officials clarified that there is no indication the incident was an act of terrorism. The car managed to enter the pedestrian-packed zone after a temporary lifting of a roadblock to allow the ambulance to pass.
The incident has triggered widespread concern and scrutiny over event security. Senior officers maintained that the operation had accounted for a range of contingencies, including armed police presence and extensive road closures. Nevertheless, questions have been raised about how the suspect’s vehicle was able to gain access to a closed-off area.
The city remains in shock, with a police cordon still in place at the scene. Mourners have laid flowers, cards, and toys near the site, turning it into a place of solemn reflection. The emotional toll on those present during the crash has been severe, with many describing scenes of chaos and horror.
Robbie Potter, a survivor of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, was in attendance and said he was momentarily transported back to the trauma of that day. “I thought it was happening again,” he said, questioning how such a breach of security could have occurred. “From the videos, they’ve been very lucky.”
One of the most harrowing accounts came from Daniel Eveson, who feared for the lives of his partner and baby son. The impact knocked his partner under the vehicle, and their son’s pram was flung 15 feet down the street. Miraculously, the child was unharmed. Eveson suffered a blow to the chest and scrambled to ensure his family was safe, leaving his son in a nearby restaurant under the care of others while he searched for his partner.
Jack Trotter and Abbie Gallagher, a couple from Northern Ireland, were also struck. Trotter, injured in the back and leg, is now using crutches and recounted his fear when separated from Gallagher. He later found her after hearing her scream his name.
In the wake of the tragedy, messages of support have poured in. The King praised Liverpool’s community spirit as a source of strength for those affected. The Prince and Princess of Wales expressed sorrow that what should have been a joyous occasion ended in distress. The Princess Royal visited the Royal Liverpool University Hospital to thank medical staff for their efforts.
Football legends have also spoken out. Former captain Steven Gerrard said he was “shocked, sickened and saddened,” while former manager Jürgen Klopp sent his thoughts and prayers, concluding with the club’s iconic anthem line: “You’ll never walk alone.”
An investigation into the incident remains ongoing. Authorities have urged witnesses to come forward with information and to avoid sharing unverified details online.
