Police launch fresh appeal for witnesses as ‘complex’ investigation reveals 30 MORE victims have come forward since Ford Galaxy ploughed into title celebrations
The number of victims injured when a car ploughed into Liverpool FC fans during the club’s Premier League victory parade has dramatically risen to 109, police revealed today – a shocking increase of 30 from the previous toll.
Four people remain in hospital exactly one week after former Royal Marine Paul Doyle, 53, allegedly drove his grey Ford Galaxy into crowds celebrating on Water Street, leaving devastation in his wake.
The stunning new figure emerged as Merseyside Police issued an urgent fresh appeal for witnesses to come forward, admitting the investigation has become increasingly “complex and constantly evolving.”
TOLL KEEPS CLIMBING
In a dramatic development that will alarm city officials, Detective Superintendent Rachel Wilson revealed the casualty count has continued to rise as more victims report injuries from the May 26 horror.
This is a complex and constantly evolving investigation and we are still working through and assessing those reporting being injured and our enquiries remain ongoing,” she said.
The new toll of 109 injured represents a staggering increase from:
- Initial reports: 27 taken to hospital
- Day two: 65 casualties confirmed
- Day three: 79 people injured
- Today: 109 victims identified
FOUR STILL FIGHTING
Four victims remain hospitalised a full week after the carnage unfolded during what should have been a joyous celebration of Liverpool’s first Premier League title in five years.
While police confirmed those still receiving treatment are in stable condition, the fact they remain in hospital seven days later underscores the severity of their injuries.
The victims include two children aged 11 and 17, who were among six people specifically named in the charges against suspect Doyle.
THE NIGHT OF HORROR
The attack unfolded just after 6pm on Monday, May 26, as an estimated one million fans lined the 10-mile parade route through Liverpool city centre.
Witnesses described scenes of terror as the Ford Galaxy:
- Followed an ambulance through police barriers onto the closed street
- Accelerated into crowds near the iconic Liver Building
- Dragged at least four people under its wheels
- Left victims scattered across Water Street
Harry Rashid, who attended with his wife and two young daughters, recalled: “This grey people carrier just pulled up from the right and just rammed into all the people at the side of us… It was extremely fast. Initially, we just heard the pop, pop, pop of people just being knocked off the bonnet.”
HERO FANS FOUGHT BACK
In dramatic scenes captured on social media, furious fans converged on the vehicle after it stopped, smashing its windows as they tried to reach the driver.
Police officers had to battle the angry crowd to protect the suspect from mob justice as emergency services rushed to treat the wounded.
Three adults and one child had to be freed from beneath the vehicle by firefighters in a desperate rescue operation.
FRESH WITNESS APPEAL
Detective Superintendent Wilson today thanked those who have already come forward but issued an urgent plea for more witnesses.
“I would continue to appeal for anyone who has information and is yet to come forward to please get in touch as a matter of urgency,” she said.
Police are particularly seeking:
- Video footage from the scene
- Witness statements from those who haven’t yet spoken to officers
- Information about the vehicle’s movements before the attack
- Details from anyone who saw the immediate aftermath
Information can be submitted via the Major Incident Police Portal at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/05MP24M59-PO2
SUSPECT FACES LIFE
Paul Doyle, 53, from Croxteth, Liverpool, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday charged with seven offences including:
- Two counts of wounding with intent
- Two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent
- Two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent
- One count of dangerous driving
The charges, which relate to six specific victims including the two children, carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment if convicted.
Doyle, reported to be a former Royal Marine, was remanded in custody and will next appear for a plea hearing on August 14.
NOT TERROR BUT STILL TERROR
While police were quick to rule out terrorism – learning from the riots that followed misinformation about the Southport stabbings – the attack has left Liverpool traumatised.
The 53-year-old white British suspect was arrested on suspicion of:
- Attempted murder
- Dangerous driving
- Driving while unfit through drugs
Police believe he gained access to the closed street by following an ambulance responding to a suspected heart attack, exploiting the momentary lifting of barriers.
CITY IN SHOCK
The incident cast a dark shadow over what should have been a celebration of Liverpool’s first title win since fans were able to properly celebrate – COVID lockdowns had prevented parades for their 2020 triumph.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “My thoughts and the thoughts of the whole country are with all of those that are affected, those injured, which of course includes children, their families, their friends… Liverpool fans everywhere.
Even bitter rivals showed solidarity, with Manchester United and local rivals Everton offering condolences to the victims.
WARNING TO PUBLIC
As the investigation continues, police have issued a stark warning to the public about speculation that could jeopardise the case.
We understand that emotions are still running high, and people are seeking answers, but it is vital that we allow the matter to go through the judicial process,” Detective Superintendent Wilson cautioned.
She specifically warned against sharing:
- Speculation about motives
- Unverified information
- Video footage on social media rather than submitting it to police
COMPENSATION AVAILABLE
The government has confirmed victims can apply for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
Officials stressed that victims do not need to pay for solicitors or claims companies to access the scheme, with free advice available through victim support services.
THE INVESTIGATION CONTINUES
As the casualty count continues to rise and four victims remain in hospital, questions are mounting about:
- How many more victims might still come forward
- The full extent of injuries sustained
- Security measures for future public events
- How the driver accessed the closed street
With 109 confirmed victims and counting, this has become one of the worst vehicle attacks on civilians in recent British history.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Merseyside Police immediately via 101 or through their online reporting system.
