Liverpool Release Official Response Following Driver’s Guilty Plea in Parade Incident

After winning the Premier League last season, Liverpool’s title celebrations were overshadowed by shocking scenes in the city centre following the parade.

Paul Doyle, a 54-year-old man, drove his vehicle into a crowd, injuring more than 130 people. He was arrested at the scene and later charged with 31 different offences.

Although Doyle had initially denied all charges, he returned to court on Wednesday and changed his plea. He admitted nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, 17 counts of attempted GBH, and three counts of wounding with intent.

According to prosecutors, the overwhelming evidence gathered by police left him with no realistic option but to plead guilty. Liverpool FC have now issued a formal response to the latest developments.

Liverpool Issue Statement After Doyle’s Guilty Plea

Shortly after the news broke on Thursday afternoon, Liverpool published an official club statement.

“Last May’s victory parade gave an extraordinary number of Liverpool supporters the chance to come together and celebrate our Premier League triumph—something we could not do in 2020.

“What began as a day of incredible joy ended in unthinkable circumstances. We hope today’s conviction brings some comfort to everyone affected by this terrible event. Our thoughts remain with them.

“We want to express our gratitude to the emergency services and partner agencies—Merseyside Police, North West Ambulance Service, St John Ambulance, Merseyside Fire & Rescue—and to the members of the public who responded with such courage and kindness. Their actions certainly saved lives and reflected the true spirit of our city.”

Merseyside Police have described it as a “miracle” that nobody lost their life.

Liverpool’s parade marked their first Premier League title celebration since 2020, when fans were unable to gather due to the COVID-19 pandemic and national lockdowns.

Doyle Breaks Down While Changing Plea

Sky Sports News reported that Doyle was visibly emotional in the dock, crying and speaking in a trembling voice as he admitted guilt for the incident on May 26.

Judge Andrew Menary KC has scheduled a two-day sentencing hearing beginning December 15. Doyle has been remanded into custody, and the judge warned that he should expect “a significant custodial sentence,” saying imprisonment is “the inevitable outcome.”