After clinching the Premier League title last season, Liverpool's celebrations were marred after the parade ended with horrifying scenes in the city centre.
54-year-old male Paul Doyle drove his car into a crowd of people, injuring over 130 people, and was immediately arrested, before being charged with 31 offences in court.
Doyle had previously plead not guilty to the offences, but after appearing in court on Wednesday he admitted nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, 17 counts of attempting to cause GBH and three counts of wounding with intent.
Prosecutors say Doyle was left with no choice but to plead guilty after police reviewed the evidence, and now Liverpool have responded to the latest development in the situation.
Liverpool Release Statement After Doyle Changes Plea
Anfield
Anfield
After the news emerged on Thursday afternoon, Liverpool released an official statement on their website.
"Our victory parade last May allowed an unprecedented number of Liverpool fans to celebrate together our Premier League title win – something we were unable to do in 2020.
"The day of incredible joy ended in unimaginable circumstances and we hope today's conviction brings some peace to all those affected by the horrific incident. Our thoughts are with them all.
"We would like to thank our emergency services and partner agencies – Merseyside Police, North West and St John Ambulance Services, Merseyside Fire & Rescue – and members of the public, who responded with such bravery and compassion on the day. Their actions undoubtedly saved lives and exemplified the spirit of our city."
It has been described by the Merseyside Police as a 'sheer miracle' that nobody was killed during the incident.
Liverpool were celebrating their first Premier League title since 2020, when they were unable to celebrate with fans due to the Coronavirus outbreak which left much of the world in lockdown and isolation.
Doyle Weeps as he Enters Guilty Plea
Police at Liverpool trophy parade incident
According to Sky Sports News, Doyle was seen weeping and wiping away tears in the dock at the court, while also speaking in a broken voice as he changed his pleas to guilty for the May 26th incident.
Judge Andrew Menary KC has set a two-day sentencing date from December 15th, and after remanding Doyle in custody, he told him that he faces a "custodial sentence of some length" for his crimes, and that he should prepare himself for an "inevitable outcome".
Liverpool trophy parade Related
Liverpool FC Victory Parade Accused, Paul Doyle, Pleads Not Guilty
More than 130 people, including eight children, were injured on May 26.