What started as an unforgettable day of celebration quickly turned into a nightmare for two Liverpool fans attending the city’s Premier League victory parade.
Jack Trotter and his girlfriend, Abbie Gallagher, had traveled from Newtownards in County Down to be part of the massive crowd lining the streets for the long-anticipated festivities.
But their excitement turned into fear when a car plowed into the crowd on Water Street around 6 p.m. on Monday.
Speaking to the BBC after being discharged from the hospital, Jack recalled the sudden shift in emotions: “I’ve never gone from feeling on top of the world to complete panic so fast.”
His immediate concern was for his partner. “The first thing I thought was, ‘Where’s Abbie? I need to find her.’ Thankfully, she was shouting my name and I was able to get to her,” he said.
Jack was taken to hospital with injuries to his leg and back and now relies on crutches. He expressed gratitude for being alive and thanked everyone for their support.
Abbie described the experience as “terrifying,” saying she had to push herself off the car’s bonnet. “All I remember is the car in front of me,” she said. “I was screaming and crying, and then I heard Jack calling out, ‘I’m here.’”
Earlier that day, the couple had enjoyed what Jack called a “phenomenal” experience, particularly getting a close view of Virgil van Dijk and singing with fellow fans on the train ride in.
For many, the day was marked by extreme highs and sudden, shocking lows.
Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp captured the city’s collective mood, calling the day a reflection of “the two faces of life.”
“The parade was amazing. The atmosphere was electric. And in an instant, it all changed,” he said.
He continued, “There are things more important than football… My thoughts are with those who were injured, and their families.”
Abbie echoed those thoughts, emphasizing the importance of appreciating loved ones. “Hold your loved ones close,” she said. “You really just never know—everything can change in a moment.”
Police later reported that 65 people were injured in the incident, including four children, one of whom is in serious condition. A 53-year-old man from West Derby has been arrested on charges of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and driving under the influence of drugs.
Klopp’s words remind us all: while football can bring immense joy, life can change in the blink of an eye.