Merseyside Police have said that a 53-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs after more than 50 people were injured - including four children - by a car at Liverpool's Premier League trophy parade.
The incident happened on bank holiday Monday when tens of thousands of supporters lined the streets of the city to celebrate the club's second Premier League title triumph, a day after their final fixture of the 2024-25 season at home to Crystal Palace.
Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims said the force believe that the suspected driver of the car which struck pedestrians was able to follow an ambulance onto Water Street attending to someone suffering a heart attack after a road block was temporarily lifted.
Detective Chief Superintendent Karen Jaundrill has revealed that there were a total of 65 confirmed casualties following the incident, with more than 50 treated in different hospitals, while 11 people remain in hospital in a stable condition.
Providing an update at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon Ms Sims said: "It is believed the driver of the Ford Galaxy car involved in this incident was able to follow an ambulance onto Water Street after the road block was temporarily lifted so that the ambulance crew could attend to a member of the public who was having a heart attack."
She added: "There was no intelligence to suggest an incident of this nature would take place."
"We have arrested a 53-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder."
— Sky News (@SkyNews) May 27, 2025
Police say the man was held after a car hit crowds at Liverpool's title parade. He remains in custody on suspicion of attempted murder and drug driving.https://t.co/Y445YQ2pGQ
📺 Sky 501 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/LNzEkzNQkn
Ms Sims has defended the policing operation during the parade, stating that the force planned for "all contingencies", including road closures and an armed police presence.
This comes after Liverpool City Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram insisted that the vehicle should not have been on the street and that questions about how the car was able to enter Water Street were "legitimate".
Providing an update on the investigation, Ms Jaundrill said that the suspect from the West Derby area of Liverpool remains in custody and is being interviewed by officers.
The force received help from neighbouring forces "due to the number of victims" and Police have until lunchtime on Wednesday to either release the suspect or pursue charges.
Van Dijk "praying" for supporters injured at parade
In response to the horrific incident, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has said that is "praying for a speedy recovery" for those who were injured.
"My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected," Van Dijk posted on Instagram. "Praying for a speedy recovery for everyone who suffered injuries. We are all with you."
© Imago
King Charles, Jurgen Klopp 'shocked' and 'saddened' by parade incident
Van Dijk's post came after his former manager Jurgen Klopp, who attended Sunday's final game of the season before watching Monday's parade from a position on the Strand, close to where the incident on Water Street would later occur, also offered support to those affected.
A post on Instagram from Klopp read: "My family and I are shocked and devastated. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are injured and affected. You'll never walk alone."
Meanwhile, King Charles III has also released a statement, which read: "My wife and I were deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the terrible events that took place in Liverpool on Monday.
"It is truly devastating to see that what should have been a joyous celebration for many could end in such distressing circumstances.
"At this heart-breaking time for the people of Liverpool, I know that the strength of community spirit for which your city is renowned will be a comfort and support to those in need.
"Our prayers and deepest sympathy are with all those who have been affected, and my special gratitude goes out to the first responders, emergency services personnel and other individuals who rushed to the aid of the injured."
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, who will visit Liverpool on Tuesday evening, is expected to visit the cordon of the incident and meet with emergency personnel.
Oliver Thomas
