A day of celebration in Liverpool turned chaotic on Monday when a car plowed into crowds reveling in the city’s Premier League title victory, injuring at least 27 people. Merseyside Police have apprehended a 53-year-old local man in connection with the incident, clarifying that it is not being investigated as an act of terrorism. “We believe this to be an isolated incident, and we are not currently looking for anyone else,” stated Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims during a press briefing.
The crash occurred around 6:00 PM local time near Water Street, shortly after an open-top victory bus passed through the area. Eyewitness accounts revealed the harrowing scene as victims were taken away on stretchers, and the full extent of their injuries remains unclear. Harry Rashid, 48, described the incident: “Initially we just heard the pop, pop, pop of people being knocked off the bonnet. It was horrible, and you could hear the bumps as he was going over people.” Another bystander, Mike Maddra, recounted how the car mounted the pavement, speeding toward the crowd. “It was terrifying; we barely got out of the way,” he added.
Emergency responders arrived promptly, establishing cordons and treating the injured on-site. The North West Ambulance Service coordinated efforts with other agencies as events unfolded. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the incident as “appalling” and extended his thoughts to those impacted, asserting he was receiving updates about the ongoing investigation.
In a chilling account, BBC journalist Matt Cole, who attended the parade with his daughter, recalled the distressing moment the car surged through the crowd. “There were screams ahead of us, and suddenly this dark blue car came through. It just wasn’t stopping. I managed to grab my daughter and jump out of the way-it missed us by inches,” he recounted. Videos circulating on social media showcased the aftermath, with fans surrounding the car, some reportedly breaking its windows while police struggled to manage the crowd.
Authorities urged the public to refrain from speculating about the motives behind the crash, confirming that the driver was a white British man from Liverpool. Liverpool FC expressed its solidarity, stating on X that it is collaborating with law enforcement and sending “thoughts and prayers to those affected.” Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram remarked on the challenging day for the city, affirming that the community stands united. Even city rivals Everton extended their support, sharing their thoughts for those impacted by the incident.
What began as a jubilant celebration, with hundreds of thousands of fans braving rain to commemorate Liverpool’s record-equalling 20th English league title, quickly turned somber. Stars Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk led the team on a 10-mile parade filled with fireworks and red smoke-a welcome change after the pandemic thwarted celebrations following Liverpool’s last title win in 2020. The tragic incident also evoked memories of past football-related tragedies in Liverpool, including the Hillsborough disaster in 1989 and the Heysel Stadium tragedy in 1985.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the city grapples with the duality of joyous triumph and unforeseen tragedy, reminding all that community support is more vital than ever in such uncertain times.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/uk/car-rams-into-crowd-during-liverpool-victory-parade-several-injured-man-arrested/articleshow/121422086.cms
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Publish Date: 2025-05-27 03:31:00
