Celebratory crowd in Liverpool hit by vehicle, causing multiple injuries
Updated News: 53-year-old driver apprehended following car crash into Liverpool's title celebrations; multiple injuries reported
In the heart of the bustling northern English city of Liverpool, an unfortunate incident marred the joyous atmosphere of the football club FC Liverpool's championship triumph. As thousands of fans celebrated in the city center, a vehicle inexplicably drove into the crowd at approximately 18:00 local time (19:00 CEST).
Initial reports suggest that a 53-year-old local man, now in police custody, was behind the wheel of the vehicle. Emergency services, including the North West Ambulance Service, are currently assessing the situation and collaborating to swiftly provide medical assistance to the injured. A rescue helicopter has been deployed to expedite response efforts.
The exact number of casualties is yet to be determined, but numerous individuals have been reported hurt. There have been no reports of fatalities thus far.
It remains unclear whether the incident was accidental or deliberate in nature. The police, who arrived at the scene promptly, are carrying out an investigation and have secured the area. A specialist anti-terror unit is also involved in the probe, as per reports from Sky News.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper have expressed their dismay over the incident, urging the public to allow the police to conduct their investigation undisturbed. Liverpool Mayor Steve Rotheram also voiced support for the city, stating, "Today has been a tough day, but our resolve remains strong."
FC Liverpool and the Premier League have also offered their sympathies to those affected. The chaotic drive, captured on video, shows the vehicle crashing into the crowd, during which witnesses described hearing screams and seeing the driver brazenly approaching the people in the street, despite a clear path ahead.
One eyewitness recounted, "We were packed like sardines in a tin, walking down the street, then we heard honking and screaming. When we looked up, a black minivan was heading straight for us. My friend and I quickly moved out of the way, pulling her little daughter with us." Another eyewitness reported seeing the vehicle run over people.
Dramatic footage depicting angry bystanders attacking the car has also surfaced online, resulting in the car's rear window being shattered. Meanwhile, the chaotic scene left debris scattered across the street, including fan items, traffic cones, and bicycles.
Police have asked the public to refrain from speculating about the circumstances surrounding the crash and to instead send relevant video material and information directly to them. They also discourage sharing distressing footage on social media platforms.
Source: ntv.de, mpa/dpa/rts
- Traffic Accidents
- FC Liverpool
- England
- Police
- Investigations
Note: According to Merseyside Police, the car incident during Liverpool's championship celebrations is not being treated as a terrorism-related incident. The incident is being investigated as a case of dangerous driving and driving under the influence of drugs. The public has been urged not to speculate on the motives behind the crash.
- The car crash that occurred during Liverpool's championship celebrations is being probed by the police, with a central focus on dangerous driving and drug-related reasons.
- The investigation into the car incident during FC Liverpool's triumph is ongoing and involves the Police and an anti-terror unit, following reports that emerged from Sky News.
- The public is urged to refrain from speculating about the circumstances surrounding the crash, and instead, share any relevant video material and information directly with the authorities.
