Introduction: A Day of Celebration Turned Tragedy
What was supposed to be a jubilant day in Liverpool — celebrating Liverpool FC's Premier League victory with a grand parade — turned into a horrifying scene when a car ploughed through crowds of fans. The joyous occasion quickly shifted to chaos and fear as dozens of people were injured, and the city faced a moment of crisis. This article breaks down what happened, who was involved, and the latest updates on the investigation and reactions.
The Incident: What Exactly Happened?
On Monday evening, shortly after 6 pm BST, near the end of Liverpool FC's Premier League victory parade, a Ford Galaxy vehicle suddenly drove through a crowd on Water Street, one of the final points along the parade route. The street was closed to traffic, but police later explained that the roadblock had briefly been lifted to allow an ambulance to pass through for an unrelated medical emergency.
In footage verified by the BBC, fans could be seen confronting the car before it ploughed through the crowds.
Casualties and Emergency Response
Police confirmed 65 casualties, with 50 people needing hospital treatment. Among the hospitalized, 11 remained under care but were reported to be in stable condition and recovering well. Tragically, four children were among those injured, including one seriously hurt. Rescue workers pulled four people, including a child, from beneath the car.
Emergency services responded swiftly, treating the wounded at the scene and rushing others to nearby hospitals. The atmosphere, which had moments earlier been filled with celebration and music, was now overwhelmed with sirens and distress.
Eyewitness Accounts: Personal Stories From the Crowd
The chaos was captured through the eyes of multiple witnesses, providing a harrowing glimpse into the moments during and after the collision.
Matt Cole, a BBC reporter present at the scene, described seeing the car “just wasn't stopping,” estimating it was traveling over 20 mph as it barreled through the crowd. Men chased the vehicle, trying to stop it by banging on the doors and windows.
Matthew O'Carroll from Runcorn recalled the vehicle approaching at a “decent speed” with the driver honking the horn as it hit the crowd.
One of the most emotional accounts came from Daniel Eveson, whose partner was dragged under the car and whose baby's pram was thrown down the street. For a tense moment, he feared for their lives but later found his son unharmed, while his partner remained hospitalized.
Jack Trotter and his girlfriend Abbie Gallagher were also caught in the chaos. Jack sustained injuries to his back and leg but has since been discharged. Gallagher described instinctively putting her hands on the car's bonnet as it approached, narrowly escaping harm.
Location and Context: Water Street and the Parade
Water Street is located near the Strand area of Liverpool's city centre, where the parade was moving towards its finish. Thousands of fans had gathered to celebrate Liverpool FC's first Premier League title in years, filling the streets with joy and excitement. The incident occurred approximately one mile before the parade's endpoint, abruptly ending the festivities.
Road Closures and Police Statement
Police confirmed that Water Street was officially closed to traffic for the parade. However, the roadblock was temporarily removed to allow an ambulance to pass for an unrelated medical emergency. Authorities believe the car involved in the incident was able to enter Water Street by following the ambulance.
The man driving the Ford Galaxy, a 53-year-old white British male, was arrested and is currently held on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and driving while unfit through drugs.
Reactions from Officials and the Public
The incident has drawn strong responses from political leaders, the royal family, and football organizations.
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed his shock and sympathy, thanking emergency responders for their quick actions.
- Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called the scenes “deeply worrying” and extended her thoughts to those affected.
- King Charles III and Queen Camilla, who were in Canada at the time, shared a message of condolence, praising Liverpool's renowned community spirit.
- Liverpool FC and Everton FC released statements expressing their condolences and support, with Liverpool FC staff celebrations postponed out of respect.
- The Premier League also condemned the events, offering their heartfelt thoughts to victims and families.
- Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram described the incident as overshadowing a day of celebration and urged caution against speculation while investigations continue.
Investigation Status: Terrorism Ruled Out
Police have clarified that the incident is not currently being treated as terrorism. The attack does not appear to have any political, religious, racial, or ideological motivation. They consider it an isolated event and are not seeking any other suspects.
Community Response and Moving Forward
Liverpool, known for its resilience and strong community ties, has come together in support of the injured and their families. Various local organizations, charities, and residents are rallying to provide assistance.
Authorities continue to investigate the motives and circumstances of the driver's actions. Meanwhile, support services have been mobilized to help those physically and emotionally affected by the traumatic event.
Conclusion: A Tragic Turn During Liverpool's Moment of Joy
The Liverpool FC parade incident shocked a city still basking in the glow of its football triumph. What started as a day of celebration ended in tragedy, with many injured and the community left grappling with the aftermath. As investigations proceed, the focus remains on healing, justice, and preserving the spirit that defines Liverpool.
FAQs
Who was arrested after the Liverpool parade incident?
A 53-year-old white British man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and driving while unfit through drugs.
How many people were injured in the incident?
Police confirmed 65 casualties, with 50 treated in hospitals and 11 still recovering.
Was the incident treated as terrorism?
No, police have stated it is not currently considered a terrorism-related incident.
What has Liverpool FC said about the incident?
Liverpool FC expressed their condolences, stated they are in contact with police, and postponed their staff celebrations.
How did the community respond?
The community showed resilience and support, with local leaders urging calm and encouraging aid for those affected.
