What started as a day of joy in Liverpool turned into a heartbreaking scene when a vehicle drove into a crowd during the city’s Premier League victory parade. The celebration marked Liverpool FC’s 20th Premier League title, a major moment for the club and its fans.
Hundreds of thousands lined the streets for the first public title parade since 1990. The club’s 2020 league title was not celebrated publicly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 10-mile-long route wound through key parts of the city, with cheering fans waving flags, chanting songs, and showering the open-top bus with confetti.
But toward the end of the parade, on Water Street, the mood changed.
A Car Plows Into the Crowd
As the open-top bus neared the final leg of the journey, a vehicle drove directly into a section of the gathered crowd. The crash caused panic and confusion. Screams and shouts filled the air. People rushed to help those injured, and emergency services were called in immediately.
Police quickly arrested the driver of the vehicle, a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area. He remains in custody.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims of Merseyside Police confirmed that the crash is not being treated as terrorism-related. She added that there is no ongoing threat to the public and that officers are working to understand the motive behind the act.
Emergency Response Was Fast and Brave
Rescue workers, including paramedics, police, and fire crews, were at the scene within minutes. They treated at least 27 people who were later taken to hospitals, while another 20 people received care on the spot.
Four victims, including a child, were trapped under the vehicle and had to be carefully pulled out by rescuers. Nick Searle, from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, led the operation. He praised the quick actions of his team and the crowd members who stepped in to help.
Paramedics set up emergency tents along the road. A nearby restaurant was turned into a triage center to treat the injured. Stretchers, oxygen tanks, and first-aid supplies were rushed in.
Emergency teams asked the public not to share videos of the crash online, in order to protect the dignity and privacy of the victims. Police also asked anyone with footage or photos to submit them as evidence.
National Leaders Speak Out
Prime Minister Keir Starmer posted on social media shortly after the crash, calling the scenes “appalling.” He sent thoughts to the victims and thanked emergency services for acting swiftly.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper also shared a statement. She described the event as “shocking and horrendous,” promising to keep the public informed as the investigation unfolds.
Football Clubs Show Unity
Liverpool FC, the club at the center of the parade, issued a statement saying it was “deeply saddened” by the incident. The club is working closely with Merseyside Police and offered its full support to the emergency services. Liverpool also sent “thoughts and love” to all those hurt.
Everton FC, Liverpool’s longtime rival and fellow city club, shared a message of solidarity and compassion. “Our hearts are with the victims, their families, and all who were affected,” the club wrote.
Clubs from across the country have also joined in with messages of support. Manchester United, Arsenal, and Leeds United all sent words of care and strength.
A Historic Day Tainted by Violence
Liverpool’s 20th league title was meant to be a day of unity and joy. For many fans, the chance to celebrate publicly was long overdue. The club’s last public title parade happened in 1990. Although they won the Premier League in 2020, pandemic restrictions forced the team to hold a closed celebration.
The city pulled out all the stops for this event. Fans gathered early, some arriving before sunrise. Red banners filled the skyline. Local shops and pubs stayed open late to serve the flood of people.
But as the open-top bus carrying players and staff neared the end of the route, the day took a tragic turn that no one expected.
Police Continue to Investigate
Authorities are still piecing together what led to the crash. They’ve urged witnesses to come forward and submit any videos or photos that may help the investigation.
Police are also checking traffic cameras, CCTV footage, and other sources to map the driver’s actions before the crash.
At this time, the driver has not been formally charged, but detectives are questioning him and reviewing all possible causes, including mental health issues or reckless driving.
The Road to Healing Begins
The city of Liverpool is now facing the hard task of healing. Community leaders have asked people to focus on helping each other and supporting the injured.
A candlelight vigil is being planned at Pier Head, one of the key parade locations. Fans and residents are expected to gather and light candles in memory of the day’s victims.