Man Admits Guilt in Liverpool Parade Crash Injuring 130 Fans

Paul Doyle has admitted to multiple charges related to a serious incident that occurred during a celebration parade in Liverpool on May 26, 2023. The 54-year-old pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and numerous counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm at Liverpool Crown Court on the second day of his trial. This incident left over 130 people injured as they celebrated the football team’s Premier League title victory.

During the court proceedings, Doyle changed his plea in front of a jury shortly after they were sworn in. As he re-entered his pleas, he showed visible emotion, sobbing and wiping away tears while the charges were read aloud. Previously, he had denied all offenses connected to the crash, which involved driving his Ford Galaxy Titanium into crowds on Water Street just after 18:00 local time.

The incident took place as thousands of Liverpool fans gathered to celebrate the team’s success. Reports indicate that Doyle’s vehicle struck crowds just as the parade was concluding, with supporters beginning to disperse. More than 130 people reported injuries ranging from minor to serious, with the youngest victim being only six months old. Teddy Eveson, identified as the youngest victim, was reportedly thrown approximately 15 feet from his pram during the incident. Doyle has acknowledged attempting to cause grievous bodily harm to the infant.

Details of the Incident and Charges

The charges against Doyle encompass a total of 29 victims, with ages ranging from six months to 77 years old. In addition to the charges of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, he faces nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and three counts of wounding with intent. The prosecution had prepared to present evidence when Doyle opted to change his pleas.

According to Merseyside Police, the driver is believed to have followed an ambulance onto Water Street after a temporary roadblock was lifted to assist a person suffering a heart attack. Witnesses at the scene described the chaos as the vehicle surged into the crowd, highlighting the panic that ensued among fans.

Doyle, a reported former member of the Royal Marines, appeared visibly distressed at several pre-trial hearings, often participating via videolink from prison. He was accompanied in court by family members for support during the proceedings.

Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigations

The incident has prompted widespread shock and concern within the community, as many fans had gathered to celebrate a momentous occasion for the football club. The parade began at 14:30, covering a distance of 15 kilometers before reaching the city center, where the festivities were meant to culminate in a joyous celebration.

As the legal proceedings continue, the community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, which marred what was meant to be a day of celebration. The court’s judgment in this case will likely resonate beyond Liverpool, emphasizing the critical need for safety during public gatherings.

In light of this incident, discussions surrounding crowd safety and emergency response measures at large public events are expected to gain momentum. The trial’s outcome will be closely monitored as it unfolds in the coming weeks.