What began as a day of jubilation in Liverpool turned into one of chaos and heartbreak when a vehicle ploughed into crowds gathered for Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade on Monday evening.
Tens of thousands of fans had lined the city’s streets to celebrate the club’s success. But at around 6:00 PM BST, on Water Street, just moments after the open-top bus carrying players had passed, a grey Ford car drove through a ‘road closed’ sign and accelerated into the crowd. Eyewitnesses described the vehicle beeping its horn before striking dozens of people, leaving nearly 50 injured.
Among the injured are four individuals in critical condition, including a child. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and according to the fire department, at least four people had to be pulled out from under the vehicle.
A 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area has been arrested and is believed to be the driver. Merseyside Police confirmed that the incident is not being treated as terror-related. The decision to quickly release the suspect’s ethnicity and nationality was a deliberate move by police, aiming to curb the spread of misinformation and speculation online.
Community and National Reactions
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of support and condolences from across the UK and beyond.
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram expressed deep concern, stating, “There’s a big question over how this vehicle was able to drive into crowds during the parade.”
King Charles issued a statement from Ottawa, where he is on official duties, saying he was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the events. Prince William and Princess Kate, in a rare joint statement, offered their sympathies, calling it “a tragedy that ended what should have been a joyful celebration.”
Former Liverpool FC manager Jürgen Klopp said he and his family were “shocked and devastated.” Club captain Virgil van Dijk posted a heartfelt message on Instagram: “We are all with you. Praying for a speedy recovery for everyone who suffered injuries.”
Even rival club Everton FC extended their support, stating, “As a city we stand together.”
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses described a scene of terror and confusion. Many reported hearing the horn before the vehicle sped into the dense crowd. Some fans managed to hit the car and even tried to open its doors before it surged forward. Videos verified by the BBC show the chaos unfolding—from the car’s first appearance to the aftermath, as ambulances and police filled the scene.
Shen, a fan from Shanghai who was just 10 meters from the vehicle, told the BBC: “I saw many people screaming and crying on the street… a day of paradise turned to hell.”
One mother described enduring “the longest 40 minutes of her life” trying to reach her son, who had attended the parade.
Investigation Ongoing
Forensic teams remain at the scene on Water Street as investigations continue. The area, once filled with cheers, is now cordoned off with police tape and marked by a forensics tent—surrounded by discarded flags, champagne bottles, and the remnants of celebration.
Authorities have yet to confirm the motive behind the act. While the community grieves, many are asking the same question: How was a vehicle able to reach such a highly populated area despite security measures?
Unity in the Face of Tragedy
Despite the horror of the incident, the spirit of Liverpool remains unbroken. Fans, faith leaders, and local officials are calling for unity. Prayers were held at Liverpool’s Metropolitan Cathedral today during the installation of the new Archbishop, as the city begins the long process of healing.
As investigations continue, Merseyside Police are urging anyone with information or footage of the incident to come forward.
This tragedy has cast a long shadow over what should have been a day of unfiltered joy. But if there’s one thing history has taught us, it’s that Liverpool’s strength lies in its resilience—and its people.