On Tuesday afternoon, Merseyside Police held a press conference to share an update regarding the tragic events during Liverpool’s Premier League title parade, where more than 50 individuals were injured.
The much-celebrated occasion turned grim on Monday when a black car struck a crowd of fans on Water Street in Liverpool City Centre. Footage captured the moment the vehicle plowed through a group of people, overshadowing the festivities.
Approximately one million supporters had gathered to celebrate the club’s achievement. However, around 6 p.m., an altercation reportedly occurred between the driver and some spectators, leading to a frightening chain of events.
The vehicle veered into the crowd before coming to a stop. Emergency services, including ambulances, police units, and an air ambulance, quickly responded to the scene.
Liverpool FC later released a statement on its official X account, expressing sympathy for those affected and confirming communication with Merseyside Police about the serious incident.
Authorities have since arrested a 53-year-old man from West Derby on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and driving under the influence of drugs.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims, speaking for both the police and the NHS, confirmed that 50 people received hospital treatment, with 11 still hospitalized in stable condition.
Sims also revealed that the suspect appeared to have followed an ambulance onto Water Street after a temporary roadblock was lifted to allow paramedics to assist a person believed to be suffering from a heart attack.
She explained: “The Ford Galaxy involved in the incident is thought to have entered Water Street behind an ambulance after access was briefly granted for medical personnel to attend to a member of the public.”
She added that the event had extensive planning, including road closures and armed police presence, to ensure safety. There had been no prior intelligence indicating such an incident might occur, and the case is not being treated as an act of terrorism.
Sims emphasized that a thorough investigation is ongoing and urged the public to avoid speculation or sharing distressing footage related to the event. Police reiterated that the case is not being treated as a terrorist act.