What was meant to be a day of pure celebration for Liverpool Football Club turned into a tragedy after a car drove into a crowd of fans during the club’s Premier League victory parade on May 26, 2025. The incident, which left 47 people injured, including four children, has shocked the city and football fans around the world.

While authorities have confirmed the incident is not being treated as a terror attack, questions remain about the motives behind the act. A 53-year-old local man has been arrested.

Timeline of Events

  • 18:00 BST (approx.): A car, reportedly a silver vehicle, ploughed into a large crowd gathered along Water Street, moments after the Liverpool FC parade bus had passed.

  • Location: Water Street is close to the historic Liver Building and the Strand, a central part of the parade route.

  • Immediate chaos ensued, with video footage showing fans being struck or narrowly escaping. Eyewitnesses reported screams, panic, and confusion.

  • The car eventually stopped, but not before it caused significant damage and injuries. Angry bystanders attempted to attack the car, shattering the rear windscreen.

  • Emergency services were immediately dispatched.

Casualties and Injuries

  • 47 people injured total.

    • 27 taken to hospital.

    • 20 treated on-site for minor injuries.

  • Two seriously injured, including a child.

  • Four children were among the victims.

  • According to Merseyside Fire & Rescue Chief Nick Searle, four individuals, including a child, had to be lifted from beneath the vehicle.

Driver and Arrest

  • Suspect: A 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area.

  • He was arrested at the scene. Authorities believe he was the driver.

  • The suspect’s motive remains unknown, but police state it does not appear to be terror-related.

  • Deputy Chief Constable Jenny Sims emphasized that it was an "isolated incident" and the man acted alone. No other suspects are being sought.

Police and Emergency Response

  • Merseyside Police, North West Ambulance Service (NWAS), and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) responded immediately.

  • Specialist teams including an air ambulance, doctors, hazardous area response teams, and senior clinicians attended.

  • Victims were taken to:

    • Royal Liverpool Hospital

    • Alder Hey Children’s Hospital

    • Arrowe Park Hospital

    • Aintree University Hospital

  • MFRS fire engines lifted the vehicle to rescue those pinned underneath.

Eyewitness Accounts

  • BBC Reporter Matt Cole: Described a car that “just wasn’t stopping,” chased by men trying to bang on the side. Estimated speed: over 20mph.

  • Matthew O’Carroll (28): Claimed the car beeped as it approached and moved at a “decent speed,” clearly pushing through the crowd.

  • Bystanders: Reported seeing people thrown into the air and several injured children.

Security Concerns and Motive

  • While no evidence of terrorism has been found, the intention behind the act remains under investigation.

  • Police are appealing for dashcam and mobile footage via the Major Incident Police Portal (MIPP).

  • Public urged not to share distressing footage and avoid speculation.

Political and Football Community Reactions

Officials

  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer: “Appalling scenes... my thoughts are with all those injured or affected.”

  • Home Secretary Kemi Badenoch: Called it a “deeply worrying” event and praised emergency services.

  • Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram: Described the incident as casting “a very dark shadow over what had been a joyous day.”

Clubs and Football Authorities

  • Liverpool FC: Issued a statement offering support and expressing thoughts and prayers for victims. Postponed staff celebrations.

  • Everton FC: Echoed Liverpool’s sentiments in a rare show of cross-club unity.

  • Premier League: Called the event "appalling" and extended support to the club and the city.

Community and Emergency Services Statement

  • Liverpool City Council: Working with police and support agencies to assist affected individuals.

  • Emergency crews: Will maintain presence in the area for “reassurance” over coming days.

  • NWAS: Confirmed that the scene has been cleared, but investigations and support efforts are ongoing.

Public Safety and Advice

  • Authorities are urging the public to remain calm and avoid the area around Water Street.

  • People with any video or photos of the incident are encouraged to submit them to police.

  • Support lines have been opened for victims and witnesses.

Cultural and Social Context

  • The parade was meant to mark Liverpool FC’s return to Premier League glory.

  • It attracted hundreds of thousands of fans, including families and children, dressed in club colours.

  • The contrast between celebration and tragedy has rocked the community.

  • The city has a long, storied history with football, making this incident particularly painful.

What Happens Next?

  • Police investigation will focus on:

    • Motive of the driver.

    • Timeline and route of the vehicle.

    • Possible mental health or medical conditions.

  • Forensics teams are analyzing the vehicle and CCTV footage.

  • Mental health support and trauma counseling is being coordinated for victims and witnesses.

  • Liverpool FC and the city council have committed to working closely with authorities and the public to ensure transparency and recovery.

Conclusion

What was meant to be a historic and joyful evening for Liverpool has become one of sorrow and disbelief. As investigations continue, the city’s focus turns to the victims and their families. Liverpool — a city that has known both glory and grief — is once again uniting in compassion and resilience.