Merseyside Police have named Paul Doyle as the individual suspected of driving a car into a crowd of Liverpool supporters.
Doyle, 53, a resident of West Derby, was arrested in connection with Monday’s shocking event, which resulted in injuries to 79 people, including several who required hospitalization—among them, four children.
During a press conference, Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims confirmed: “Paul Desmond Sanders Doyle has been formally charged this afternoon with two counts of unlawfully and maliciously wounding with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, alongside two counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with similar intent.”
Sims added that Doyle is also facing a charge of dangerous driving. He has been held in custody and is scheduled to appear before Liverpool Magistrates’ Court the following morning.
While Doyle has been charged with six offenses related to grievous bodily harm, it is crucial to emphasize that these are accusations only; he has not been convicted.
Nonetheless, the Daily Star investigated the possible penalties Doyle could face if found guilty. According to the Sentencing Council, sentences for multiple charges are typically not served consecutively.
Legal experts at Burton Copeland, a law firm focused on criminal and regulatory matters, note that for grievous bodily harm—the most serious allegation—sentencing can range from three years to life imprisonment, depending on the details of the case.
Although Doyle faces multiple grievous bodily harm charges, he could theoretically receive a single life sentence. The Sentencing Council specifies that each offense carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, with typical sentencing falling between two and 16 years.
Doyle was initially arrested at the scene on Water Street on suspicion of attempted murder, driving under the influence of drugs, and dangerous driving.
Authorities obtained a time extension for further questioning on Tuesday, which expired on Thursday. By then, police were required to either formally charge Doyle, release him, or seek another extension.
Police reported on Tuesday that 79 people were injured in the incident, with 50 requiring hospital treatment. A Wednesday update confirmed that seven victims remained hospitalized in stable condition.