A 53-year-old man remains in custody on suspicion of attempted murder after his car ploughed into crowds celebrating Liverpool’s trophy parade, leaving 65 people injured including children in what witnesses described as scenes of “absolute chaos.”
The suspect, who has not been named, is also being questioned on suspicion of dangerous driving and drug-driving following yesterday’s incident on Water Street that turned celebrations into terror for thousands of fans.
Merseyside Police revealed today that the vehicle appears to have exploited a momentary gap in security when road blocks were temporarily lifted to allow an ambulance through to treat a supporter suffering a heart attack.
“We believe the car followed directly behind the ambulance when the cordon was briefly opened,” Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims told a press conference this morning. “This was a dynamic situation where officers had to make a split-second decision to allow emergency medical access.”
The full scale of the incident has now emerged, with Detective Chief Superintendent Karen Jaundrill confirming 65 casualties – significantly higher than initial estimates. These include adults and children of various ages who sustained injuries ranging from cuts and bruises to more serious trauma requiring hospital treatment,” she said.
Eyewitness Sarah Morrison, 34, was standing with her two children near the Liver Building when the car struck. “One second everyone was singing and cheering, the next there was screaming and people flying everywhere,” she said. “I grabbed my kids and pulled them onto the pavement. It was like something from a horror film.”
The incident occurred at approximately 3:45pm as thousands lined the streets for the victory parade following Liverpool’s recent cup success. The open-top bus carrying players had passed through the area just minutes before the collision.
We’d been waiting there for three hours to see the team,” said James Patterson, 41, who was treated for a leg injury. “The atmosphere was brilliant, families everywhere, kids on shoulders. Then this car just came from nowhere. People didn’t have time to move.”
Twelve people remain in hospital, with two adults still in critical condition at the Royal Liverpool Hospital. A spokesperson confirmed they were treating “multiple trauma injuries” but could not provide further details.
The quick response of emergency services has been widely praised, with off-duty medical staff among the crowd immediately assisting victims. Dr Rachel Hughes, an A&E consultant who was watching the parade with her family, said: “There were people with medical training everywhere who just jumped into action. The coordination was remarkable given the chaos.”
Liverpool FC released a statement expressing their “shock and sadness” at the incident. “Our thoughts are with all those affected by yesterday’s terrible events. We are working closely with the authorities and will provide any assistance needed.”
The arrest has raised serious questions about security arrangements for the parade, which attracted an estimated 500,000 supporters to the city centre. Merseyside Police defended their planning but acknowledged lessons would need to be learned.
“We had comprehensive security measures in place, including road closures and barriers throughout the route,” ACC Sims explained. However, we must balance public safety with the need to allow emergency vehicle access. This appears to be a deliberate act that exploited that necessary flexibility.”
Local councillor Tim Morrison called for a full review: “While we can’t let one individual’s alleged actions overshadow what should have been a day of celebration, we must examine how this was allowed to happen. Families came out to enjoy themselves and ended up in hospital.”
The suspect was arrested at the scene after the car came to a stop when members of the public surrounded the vehicle. Video footage shared on social media shows angry crowds confronting the driver before police arrived.
People were furious but the police got there quickly,” said Mark Thompson, who witnessed the arrest. “They had to protect him from the crowd as much as anything. Emotions were running incredibly high.”
Parents have praised the actions of other supporters who formed human shields around children in the immediate aftermath. Emma Williams, whose eight-year-old son was among those injured, said: “Complete strangers threw themselves over kids to protect them. In the middle of something so awful, people showed real heroism.”
The incident has cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion for the city. Liverpool had been celebrating their first trophy in several years, with players and management visibly emotional during the parade before the tragedy struck.
Detective Chief Superintendent Jaundrill confirmed investigators were examining CCTV footage and appealing for witnesses to come forward. “We have a dedicated team working on this investigation and we’re grateful for the public’s cooperation so far.”
The case has reignited debates about security at major public events, with some calling for permanent barriers and others warning against creating a “fortress mentality” around celebrations.
We can’t let fear dictate how we celebrate as a community,” said community leader Father Patrick O’Brien. “But clearly, authorities need to review their approach to protecting large gatherings.”
As the city comes to terms with yesterday’s events, a fundraising page set up for victims has already raised over £50,000. Organiser Lisa Chen said: “Liverpool always comes together in difficult times. People want to help however they can.”
The suspect remains in custody as police continue their investigation. He is expected to appear before magistrates once charges are formally brought.
For now, a city that came together to celebrate sporting success finds itself united in shock and solidarity with those whose day of joy became a nightmare they’ll never forget.
