Extended detention in police custody for the driver apprehended in Liverpool's crowded area - Extended Detention for Motorists Involved in Liverpool's Crowd Melees
In the latest development, the detention of a 53-year-old man, identified as Paul Doyle, who allegedly drove his car into a crowd in the northwest English city of Liverpool following a football fans' victory celebration, has been extended.
The incident, which occurred on Monday evening, left nearly 80 people injured, with seven individuals currently in stable condition at hospitals across the city.
Initial investigations suggest that Doyle, a white British man, was apparently under the influence of drugs when he reportedly drove his car into the crowd, initially following an ambulance. The exact circumstances leading up to the collision remain unclear.
Authorities are attempting to ascertain the driver's exact route by reviewing footage from surveillance cameras. A video circulating online shows a dark-painted Ford Galaxy reversing and speeding away after being surrounded by an angry mob on the street. Another video depicts the car plowing into the crowd, sending pedestrians flying or landing on the vehicle's hood.
The incident has caused widespread shock in the UK, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer describing the scenes as "horrific." British newspapers such as "The Sun" and "The Times" headlined the "horror" that the championship celebration had turned into.
Doyle has been charged with several serious offenses, including dangerous driving, two counts of unlawful and malicious wounding with intent, two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent. He appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on May 30 and was remanded in custody until August 14, when he is expected to return to court to enter a plea. A possible trial is scheduled for November.
At least 79 injuries were reported as a result of the incident, with 50 people taken to hospitals, including four children. The investigation is ongoing, focusing on ensuring justice for all victims, and encompasses a significant volume of evidence, including videos and eyewitness statements.
In the midst of the ongoing investigation, authorities are also questioning the Liverpool F.C. football fans who comprised the crowding mob that attempted to confront the driver of the car, Mr. Paul Doyle, following the horrific incident in Liverpool. While the police have not released specific information about potential charges, this development comes as a general-news concern due to the complexities of cracking down on crime-and-justice matters during a sports event, particularly within the football community.
