Vehicle Plows into Liverpool Title Parade Crowd: Multiple Injured, Driver Detained
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND — What began as a jubilant celebration for thousands of Liverpool Football Club supporters turned into a scene of chaos and alarm on Monday evening, May 26, 2025, when a car drove into a crowd gathered in the heart of Liverpool city centre during the team’s Premier League trophy parade.
The incident took place shortly after 6:00 p.m. on Water Street, a major route along the official parade path where fans had been lining the streets for hours to witness their beloved Reds mark a triumphant end to their Premier League season. According to Merseyside Police, the vehicle struck a number of pedestrians before coming to a halt.
Shocking Scene Unfolds
Video footage circulating on social media captured the harrowing moment the vehicle suddenly veered into the dense crowd. Screams of panic erupted as fans scrambled to get out of the way. The footage, which has since gone viral, shows bodies being thrown to the ground and chaos erupting as stunned onlookers rushed to help the injured.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of utter disbelief. “We were just singing and cheering, then out of nowhere this car came through,” said Jordan McAllister, a 27-year-old fan who was near the impact site. “People were on the ground. There was blood. It was terrifying.”
Another fan, Ellie Rawlins, told reporters, “At first I thought it was a part of the parade. But when people started screaming and running, I realized it was something really bad.”
Emergency Response and Arrest
Emergency services were quickly on the scene, with ambulances and police vehicles flooding the area within minutes of the incident. Medics were seen tending to multiple victims directly on the pavement, some with visible injuries. At this time, the exact number of casualties has not been released, and the severity of injuries remains unconfirmed.
In a swift operation, Merseyside Police detained a male suspect at the scene, who was reportedly the driver of the vehicle. Authorities confirmed that the car did not attempt to flee, and the suspect was taken into custody without further incident.
Police Statement
In an official release shared via social media, Merseyside Police stated:
“We are currently dealing with reports of a road traffic collision in Liverpool city centre. We were contacted just after 6:00 p.m. today, Monday 26 May, following reports that a car had been in collision with a number of pedestrians on Water Street. The car stopped at the scene and a male has been detained. Emergency services are currently on scene. We will issue more updates as we have them.”
Investigators have launched an urgent inquiry to determine the motive behind the collision, including whether it was a deliberate act or a tragic accident. Forensic teams were seen photographing the vehicle and collecting evidence at the site into the evening.
A Day of Celebration Turns Somber
Earlier in the day, Liverpool was awash in red as fans young and old celebrated their team’s first league title since 2020. Smoke flares filled the air, flags waved, and chants echoed through the streets as the official parade, featuring open-top buses and LFC players, rolled through the city.
The collision has cast a dark cloud over what was meant to be a historic day for the club and its supporters. The city, still reeling from the shock, has seen an outpouring of concern and support online, with many expressing hopes for the recovery of those injured and urging people to remain calm as more details emerge.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have cordoned off large sections of Water Street as they carry out their investigation. Police are urging anyone with mobile footage or information related to the incident to come forward.
At this time, no official motive has been confirmed, and the identity of the driver has not been released. Police emphasized that updates will be made available as the investigation develops.
The public has been advised to avoid the area, and those attending the rest of the celebrations were urged to remain vigilant.
Community Reaction
Local leaders and club officials have expressed their sadness over the incident. A brief statement from Liverpool FC read:
“We are deeply saddened by the events that occurred on Water Street this evening. Our thoughts are with all those affected. We are in contact with local authorities and will continue to offer any assistance needed.”
City Mayor Joanne Anderson also issued a statement, calling the incident “devastating” and offering her support to the victims and their families.
As the city of Liverpool reflects on a day meant for glory but marred by tragedy, many await answers about how such an event could unfold in the middle of one of the city’s most tightly monitored celebrations.
More updates will be provided as official information becomes available.