A man accused of driving his car into crowds celebrating Liverpool FC’s Premier League title victory now faces 31 charges after prosecutors added 24 new counts, including offences relating to two babies aged six and seven months.
Paul Doyle, 53, appeared via video link from prison at Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday, where he was visibly in tears during the 20-minute hearing. The Croxteth resident was originally charged with seven offences following the incident on Water Street on 26 May, which left 134 people injured.
The new indictment, which was not read out in court, brings the total to 31 counts relating to 29 victims aged between six months and 77 years old. Six of the new charges specifically relate to children, including the two babies who were among the youngest victims of the alleged attack.
Expanded Charges Detail
Doyle now faces 18 counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, two counts of wounding with intent, one count of dangerous driving and one count of affray.
The 53-year-old, wearing a grey T-shirt during his court appearance, did not enter any pleas. Recorder of Liverpool Judge Andrew Menary KC adjourned the case until 4 September, when Doyle is expected to enter his pleas.
The original seven charges filed in May included two counts of wounding with intent, two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, and one count of dangerous driving.
Incident Details
Merseyside Police said 134 people were injured when Doyle allegedly drove his Ford Galaxy Titanium into crowds who were leaving the waterfront after the parade just after 6pm on 26 May. The victory celebration had drawn thousands of Liverpool supporters to the city centre to mark the club’s Premier League title win.
Initial reports indicated 79 people had been injured, but this figure was later revised upward as more victims came forward. The ages of those hurt ranged from six months to 78 years old, according to police records.
Philip Astbury, prosecuting, told the court during an earlier hearing: “This is very much an ongoing investigation. There are many witnesses to be interviewed and a great deal of CCTV to be analysed.”
Background and Initial Arrest
Doyle was initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving and driving while under the influence of drugs. According to the dangerous driving charge, he allegedly drove dangerously on roads between his home address and Water Street.
Local media reported that Doyle, described by neighbours as “such a normal Liverpool dad” and a “genuinely pleasant family man,” is an IT specialist who served in the Royal Marines from 1990 to 1994. He is reportedly a married father of three teenagers.
Neighbours told The Times that when police arrived at his house late on the night of the incident, they assumed there had been a burglary, such was their shock at his alleged involvement.
Prosecution Response
Sarah Hammond, chief crown prosecutor for CPS Mersey-Cheshire, said the charges would be kept “under review as the investigation progresses.” Speaking at an earlier hearing, she emphasised: “It is important to ensure that every victim gets justice they deserve.”
Monday’s scenes reverberated around Liverpool and the country on that day of celebration,” Hammond added, acknowledging the impact on what should have been a joyous occasion for the city.
The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed that the investigation remains at an early stage, with extensive witness interviews and CCTV analysis continuing.
Court Proceedings
During Thursday’s hearing, Doyle stood with his hands clasped and nodded as proceedings were explained to him. His emotional state was evident throughout the video link appearance from prison.
A provisional trial date had been set for November 2024 during earlier proceedings, though this may be subject to change given the expanded charges. Doyle has been remanded in custody since his initial arrest.
The case has shocked Liverpool, with the incident casting a shadow over what was meant to be a celebration of sporting achievement. The city had come together to honour Liverpool FC’s Premier League title success, with thousands lining the streets for the victory parade.
The next hearing on 4 September will see Doyle formally enter pleas to all 31 charges. The case continues to be closely monitored by both local and national media given its impact on the Liverpool community.
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