Driver plows into crowd at Liverpool Premier League celebration; 53-year-old arrested

LONDON – A celebration in Liverpool turned to horror Monday evening when a minivan plowed into a crowd of jubilant soccer fans, injuring multiple people during a Premier League trophy parade. 

Police say a 53-year-old British man was arrested at the scene after the vehicle drove through tightly packed supporters.

The chaotic incident unfolded during Liverpool’s long-awaited victory celebration, marking the club’s record-tying 20th top-flight title. 

Tens of thousands had gathered in the rain to cheer on players aboard double-decker buses, just four years after COVID-19 denied them a public celebration for the club’s 2020 title.

What happened during the Liverpool parade incident?

The backstory:

The parade had drawn families and fans into the city center, where flares, flags, and fireworks filled the air. The team’s celebratory buses crawled along a 10-mile route lined with supporters who braved stormy weather to be part of the moment.

According to Merseyside Police, a minivan entered the crowd late in the event, striking multiple pedestrians. A video posted online appeared to show the van initially hitting one person before accelerating into the larger group, pushing bodies along the street.

 Emergency services, including an air ambulance, quickly arrived. The suspect was arrested on the spot, but authorities have not confirmed how many people were injured.

What they’re saying:

Eyewitness Harry Rashid told the Associated Press he was just feet away when the crash happened. 

“Initially, we just heard the pop, pop, pop of people just being knocked off the bonnet of a car,” he told the Associated Press. He described how the vehicle stopped briefly, prompting the crowd to surround it—but then the driver accelerated again.

“It was horrible,” Rashid said. “And you could hear the bumps as he was going over the people. My daughter started screaming and there were people on the ground.”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the incident “appalling” and offered thanks to police for their rapid response. Liverpool FC also issued a brief statement, saying its “thoughts and prayers were with those affected.”

Timeline:

Here’s how the incident unfolded during what was meant to be a day of celebration:

• May 26, 2025 (Monday): Tens of thousands gather in Liverpool for a Premier League trophy parade.
• Evening: A gray minivan drives into the crowd, striking multiple people.
• Moments later: Emergency vehicles, including an air ambulance, arrive at the scene.
• Shortly after: A 53-year-old British man is arrested.
• Later that night: Police confirm an investigation is underway; PM Starmer issues a statement.

What’s next:

Merseyside Police are continuing their investigation, and more information is expected in the coming days. 

In the meantime, the city of Liverpool is reeling from the aftermath of what should have been a historic and joyful evening.

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