What should have been a joyful celebration in Liverpool turned into a horrifying scene on Monday when a car drove into football fans who had gathered to mark the city’s latest Premier League title win. Several people were injured in the incident, and police have since arrested a 53-year-old man in connection with the crash.
Thousands of Liverpool supporters had braved heavy rain to attend the victory parade. The players were riding through the city on an open-top bus, waving to fans and soaking in the celebrations. The parade had just passed Water Street when a dark-coloured vehicle suddenly swerved into the crowd.
Witnesses described the terrifying moment.
Harry Rashid, who had travelled from Solihull with his wife and young daughters, said the car came speeding through the crowd. “We just heard the sound of people being hit. It was horrible,” he said.
An AFP journalist reported seeing at least four people carried away on stretchers. Ambulances and emergency crews quickly rushed to the scene. Cordons were put up as the injured were treated on the street. The full number of those injured has not yet been confirmed.
Merseyside Police are still investigating what led to the incident and have asked the public not to jump to conclusions.
A spokesperson said, “Extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances,” while also calling for calm.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer responded to the tragedy, calling it “appalling.” He thanked emergency services for their fast response and said he was closely following updates from the police.
Earlier in the day, the city had been filled with joy and excitement. Red flares lit up the streets as fans celebrated Liverpool’s record-equalling 20th league title. Players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk led the way on the team bus, taking nearly four hours to complete the 16-kilometre route.
It was a special moment for fans who had waited decades for such a celebration. When Liverpool won the title in 2020, no parade was held due to COVID-19 restrictions. This year’s celebration was a long-awaited one, but it has now been overshadowed by a tragic turn of events.
The club issued a brief statement saying it is in direct contact with the police and sent thoughts and prayers to those affected.
Sadly, Liverpool’s football legacy has often been touched by tragedy. From the Hillsborough disaster in 1989, where 97 fans lost their lives, to the Heysel tragedy in 1985, painful memories still linger. Monday’s incident adds another dark chapter to the city’s football history.
By Yockshard Enyendi