A moment of celebration turned into horror on the streets of Liverpool as a car plowed into a crowd during the Premier League title parade, leaving multiple people reportedly injured.
Thousands of jubilant supporters had gathered to celebrate Liverpool FC’s triumph, lining the streets as the team made their way through the city on an open-top bus. But the festivities took a terrifying turn around 6 p.m. on Monday, May 26, when a vehicle drove into pedestrians on Water Street in the city centre.
Merseyside Police have confirmed the arrest of a 53-year-old man from the Liverpool area in connection with the incident. The force issued an initial statement shortly after the collision, saying:
“We are currently dealing with reports of an RTC in Liverpool city centre. We were contacted at just after 6pm today, Mon 26 May, following reports a car had been in collision with a number of pedestrians on Water Street. The car stopped at the scene and a male detained.”
Later, a more detailed update was provided:
“We would ask people not to speculate on the circumstances surrounding tonight’s incident on Water Street in Liverpool city centre. We can confirm the man arrested is a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area. Extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances leading up to the collision. We would ask people not to share distressing content online but to send the footage or information directly to us.”
Authorities urged the public to share any relevant information with Merseyside Police via social media, by calling 101 (reference log 784), or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
National and Local Response
Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his concern, stating:
“The scenes in Liverpool are appalling — my thoughts are with all those injured or affected. I want to thank the police and emergency services for their swift and ongoing response to this shocking incident.”
A local MP added:
“I sincerely hope all those involved are safe and get home to their loved ones soon.”
Liverpool FC and Premier League Reactions
Liverpool FC released a statement confirming they are in close contact with police:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by this serious incident. We will continue to offer our full support to the emergency services and local authorities.”
The Premier League also expressed their support and concern:
“Everyone at the Premier League is shocked by the appalling events in Liverpool this evening, and our heartfelt thoughts go out to all those injured and affected.”
Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler responded on social media:
“Heartbreaking news…absolutely sickened with what’s happened here in Liverpool.”
Eyewitness Accounts and Emergency Response
According to one eyewitness, the vehicle was speeding and struck several people just ten minutes after the parade bus had passed that area. After briefly stalling, the driver reportedly accelerated again, hitting more bystanders.
Water Street has since been cordoned off, and emergency services, including a North West Air Ambulance, responded rapidly. A BBC reporter noted that at least three injured individuals were seen being carried away on stretchers. The Liverpool Echo reported that a nearby restaurant was converted into a temporary emergency treatment area.
The North West Air Ambulance Service confirmed their involvement, stating:
“NWAS is supporting an incident in Liverpool city centre, following reports of a road traffic collision.”
Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to understand the full circumstances of the incident.
