A British man was arrested in Liverpool on suspicion of attempted murder after driving a minivan into a crowd of soccer fans celebrating their team's Premier League Championship victory. This incident occurred on May 26, 2025, and resulted in injuries to 65 individuals, according to police reports.
The 53-year-old suspect is also facing charges of dangerous driving and driving under the influence of drugs. Authorities confirmed that he is the only suspect involved and emphasized that the incident is not being treated as a terrorist act.
During the celebratory parade, which proceeded under strict security measures along a 10-mile (16-kilometer) route through Liverpool, the driver diverted into a blocked-off area and collided with fans on Water Street. The police detailed that the suspect deliberately navigated around a road block by following an ambulance that was hurrying to assist someone believed to be experiencing a heart attack.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as the car struck the crowd. Harry Rashid recounted how the minivan passed by him and his family before coming to a stop after hitting several people. As onlookers began to smash the windows of the vehicle, the driver accelerated again, injuring more individuals. Peter Jones reported that he heard the sound of bodies colliding with the car and saw at least six people lying on the ground.
Emergency response units, including air ambulances, quickly arrived at the scene to assist those injured. Initial reports from the police stated that 27 people were hospitalized and approximately 20 others were treated for minor injuries at the scene. However, these numbers were later updated, indicating that 50 individuals had received hospital treatment, with 11 remaining in stable condition.
Among the injured were four children, one of whom had been trapped under the vehicle alongside three adults. The police have not disclosed the suspect's name, which is standard procedure before formal charges are filed. In an unusual move, the authorities identified him as a white British man, aiming to combat the spread of misinformation on social media regarding the suspect’s identity. Liverpool City Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram noted the critical need for accurate information to counteract rampant rumors online, particularly following previous incidents in which false narratives led to societal unrest.
The tragedy unfolded amidst Liverpool fans celebrating their victory in what marked the city team’s Premier League Championship, their 20th in top-flight history, equaling a record set by their rivals Manchester United. Liverpool's last league title crowned in 2020 was overshadowed by the restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic, making this public celebration particularly significant.
Despite inclement weather, the parade saw enthusiastic fans dancing and waving scarves as the team’s players celebrated on two open-top buses. The victorious team's fans were met with the horrific event that marred their festivities, bringing a somber note to what should have been a day of joyous celebration.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on understanding the full circumstances of the incident and the motivations behind the driver's actions. Emergency services are working tirelessly to provide care and updates regarding the condition of the injured, as the community processes the shock of this tragic event amid a jubilant celebration turned chaotic.
