A 53-year-old man is set to appear at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on Friday morning following a horrific car crash during Liverpool Football Club’s Premier League victory parade. Paul Doyle, a father-of-three and former Royal Marine from Burghill Road in West Derby, has been charged after a vehicle he is alleged to have been driving ploughed into a crowd of fans, leaving 79 people injured.
The incident occurred at around 6:00 PM BST on Water Street, where thousands had gathered to celebrate Liverpool’s title win. Among the victims was a nine-year-old child. Merseyside Police confirmed Doyle’s arrest on Monday, shortly after the crash, which sent shockwaves through the community and prompted a swift emergency response.
According to prosecutors, Doyle faces seven serious charges. These include two counts of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), including one offence involving a child, two counts of causing unlawful and malicious GBH with intent, and two counts of attempted GBH with intent, again with one count relating to a child. He has also been charged with dangerous driving.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims revealed that seven individuals remain hospitalized, with injuries ranging from minor to critical. She acknowledged the public’s concern and confirmed that detectives are currently analysing a “huge volume” of CCTV, mobile phone, business, and dashcam footage.
Sarah Hammond, Chief Crown Prosecutor for the Mersey-Cheshire region, emphasized the importance of gathering comprehensive evidence to ensure justice for all victims. “These charges will be kept under review as the investigation develops,” she stated.
Local residents expressed shock over the arrest. Neighbours described Burghill Road being swarmed by police in the hours after the crash. “It was hard to believe it could be someone from the area,” said one.
As the investigation continues, police have appealed for any additional footage or eyewitness accounts to aid the inquiry. The court hearing on Friday is expected to be the first step in what could be a lengthy legal process.
