What began as a day of celebration in Liverpool city centre ended in shock and injury on Bank Holiday Monday, 26 May 2025. Crowds had gathered for Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade, filling the streets with thousands of jubilant fans. Just after 6pm, the atmosphere on Water Street was shattered as a vehicle ploughed into the departing crowd, leaving dozens injured and prompting a swift, large-scale police operation.
The Arrest and Immediate Aftermath
Merseyside Police arrested a 53-year-old man at the scene, quickly naming him as Paul Doyle, a father of three and former Royal Marine from Croxteth, Liverpool. Emergency services confirmed that 79 people had been injured, with victims ranging in age from nine to 78 years old. Seven people remained in hospital in the days following the incident, as officers and paramedics worked tirelessly to treat the injured and restore calm to the area. Police were quick to clarify that this was not being treated as a terror attack, aiming to dispel misinformation and reassure the public.
The Accusations in Court
Paul Doyle appeared at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on 30 May in a case that has since drawn national attention. The court heard claims that Doyle “used his vehicle deliberately as a weapon,” driving a grey Ford Galaxy into crowds of fans who were leaving the parade. Prosecutors have charged Doyle with seven serious offences: two counts of unlawful and malicious wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm, and one count of dangerous driving.
During the hearing, Doyle appeared emotional and subdued, speaking only to confirm his personal details. Legal representatives for the prosecution argued that his actions were intentional, insisting that “the defendant drove deliberately at people” as the crowd dispersed after the parade route. Notably, charges relating to the most seriously injured individuals included two children, aged eleven and seventeen.
How the Incident Unfolded
As the Liverpool FC open-top bus completed its 10-mile tour of the city, Water Street remained busy with fans. Police believe Doyle was able to access the closed-off road by following an ambulance, which had been granted entry to respond to a medical call nearby. Video footage captured the grey Ford Galaxy accelerating into the crowd. In one chilling moment, the car struck a pram carrying a baby boy, sending it spinning several metres down the street. Miraculously, the child escaped unharmed. The sense of horror was magnified by raw footage broadcast widely on news and social media.
Community and Official Response
The response from emergency services was immediate and comprehensive. Merseyside Police quickly called press briefings, and a significant presence remained in the city centre to investigate and secure the scene. Statements from Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims highlighted the gravity of the situation and praised the courage of medics, officers, and bystanders who rushed to help. Over 50 individuals were taken to hospital, and support was provided to victims and their families in the days that followed.
The city’s football community rallied together as well. A fundraising drive for victims surpassed £30,000 in a matter of days, boosted by a £10,000 donation from former Liverpool player Jamie Carragher’s charity foundation. These acts of solidarity reflected the wider mood: one of resilience, support and a determination to help those affected.
Court Proceedings and the Road Ahead
Doyle’s initial appearance in the magistrates’ court lasted only a few minutes, with no plea entered. He was remanded in custody and transferred to Liverpool Crown Court within the same building. Here, Judge Andrew Menary set a plea and trial preparation hearing for 14 August, with a provisional trial date set for 24 November. Early indications suggest the trial could last between three and four weeks. Reporting restrictions remain in place to protect the victims.
The Crown Prosecution Service and police have stressed that this is “a very active and ongoing investigation.” Prosecutors emphasized the scale and seriousness of the case, with dozens of witnesses and extensive CCTV footage being reviewed as evidence. Chief Crown Prosecutor Sarah Hammond underlined the commitment to ensuring that “every victim gets the justice they deserve.”
What Is Known About Paul Doyle?
Doyle has been described by neighbours as an ordinary, middle-class father and small business owner. He previously served in the Royal Marines during the early 1990s and has no known history of similar incidents. His defence lawyer, Richard Derby, did not request bail and made no further comment during the court session, while the defendant appeared to struggle emotionally throughout.
Public Reaction and Broader Impact
Liverpool, long renowned for the passionate support of its football club and the close ties within its community, was left reeling in the wake of these events. The city quickly mobilised to provide aid, but the psychological impact remains, with many struggling to comprehend how a day of joy devolved into mass injury and distress. City leaders and football figures alike have called for calm and unity as the legal process unfolds, with renewed attention on public safety during major gatherings.
The incident also sparked renewed debate about how authorities manage large-scale public events. Questions have been raised about road closures, crowd management, and vehicle control around high-density celebrations. Merseyside Police have stated that ongoing internal reviews will contribute to best practice for future events.
