53-Year-Old Man Arrested After Car Ploughs Through Crowds at Liverpool Victory Parade

A 53-year-old man has been arrested after a car drove into crowds of Liverpool fans during the Premier League victory parade, leaving multiple people injured.

The incident occurred just after 6 pm on Water Street, close to the parade route where thousands had gathered to celebrate Liverpool FC's league title. 

Video footage shared on social media showed the car moving through the dense crowd as people scream. 

Moments later, the vehicle came to a stop, with witnesses reporting that angry bystanders surrounded it and began striking it. The car's rear windscreen was visibly shattered.

Emergency services responded swiftly. According to Merseyside Police, the vehicle remained at the scene, and the male driver—identified as a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area—was taken into custody. 

Police have confirmed they are not treating the incident as terror-related.

In total, 27 people were taken to hospital, including a child and an adult who sustained serious injuries. 

Another 20 people received treatment at the scene. Among the injured were four children. Fire crews had to rescue four individuals, including a child, from underneath the vehicle.

Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic and terrifying scene. BBC reporter Matt Cole, who was present, said the car "just wasn't stopping" as it travelled at more than 20 mph through the crowd, with some trying to halt it by banging on the sides and throwing objects.

Another witness, Matthew O'Carroll, said the driver was beeping as he moved through the crowd at a “decent” speed.

Water Street, the site of the incident, lies near The Strand and was part of the route taken by Liverpool FC’s open-top bus tour, which had passed the area shortly before the collision. The club has since suspended internal celebrations.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer posted on social media: “The scenes in Liverpool are appalling – my thoughts are with all those injured or affected.” He also thanked emergency responders for their swift action.

Liverpool FC and Everton FC issued statements expressing support for those affected, and the Premier League echoed their sentiments, calling the event “appalling” and offering assistance to the club and authorities.

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said a day that was meant to be about “absolute celebration” had been tragically overshadowed. He urged the public not to speculate as investigations continue.

Merseyside Police have asked anyone with video footage or information to come forward as they piece together exactly what happened.