A major incident has been declared in Liverpool after a car was driven into crowds of people at the Liverpool FC Premier League title victory parade in the city.
Liam Thorp Liverpool Echo Political Editor and Emma O'Neill Assistant Live News Editor
22:06, 26 May 2025
Ambulances and police vans arrive on the scene of an incident in Water Street, on the sidelines of an open-top bus victory parade for Liverpool's Premier League title win
Ambulances and police vans arrive on the scene of an incident in Water Street, on the sidelines of an open-top bus victory parade for Liverpool's Premier League title win(Image: AFP)
A major incident has been declared in Liverpool after a car was driven into crowds at the Liverpool FC Premier League victory parade.
The ECHO understands that both Merseyside Police and the North West Ambulance Service have declared major incidents following reports of a vehicle ploughing into fans gathered near Liverpool Town Hall today (Monday).
Merseyside Police were alerted just past 6pm today, following reports of a car striking several people on Water Street in the city centre. A significant emergency service presence is currently at the scene, with police vehicles, fire engines, and ambulances stationed around the Water Street area.
An air ambulance has also landed near the Liver Building.
Police officers and firefighters on the scene of an incident in Water Street, Liverpool.
Police officers and firefighters on the scene of an incident in Water Street, Liverpool.(Image: PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Details regarding the nature and extent of the injuries sustained in the incident, which occurred as hundreds of thousands of jubilant Liverpool fans lined the streets to celebrate the team's league title triumph, are still unknown, reports the Liverpool Echo.
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Both Merseyside Police and North West Ambulance Service have declared major incidents, indicating that special arrangements are being implemented to manage this serious situation.
Liverpool's hospitals are part of this major incident response. A message seen by the ECHO, sent to NHS staff working for the University Hospitals of Liverpool Group, confirms that a major incident has been declared and instructs staff to refer to their departmental action cards.
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NHS University Hospitals Liverpool Group has pleaded with the public not to call inquiring about their loved ones following the incident at the Liverpool victory parade, assuring that next of kin will be contacted.
The trust stated: "Following the incident in Liverpool city centre this evening, we know that many people are concerned about loved ones. Next of kin will be contacted, so please help us to manage the incident as best we can by refraining from calling our switchboard."
In response to today's events, Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram issued a brief statement. He said: ""Our hearts go out to all of those affected, especially those who have been injured.
Police and emergency personnel dealing with a road traffic accident on Water Street near the Liver Building in Liverpool after a car collided with pedestrians during the Premier League winners parade. A man has been detained. Picture date: Monday May 26, 2025. PA Photo. See PA story POLICE Liverpool. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire
Thank you, as ever, to the first responders for their professionalism and swift action. This is a difficult day for our city region, but we stand together.
"Earlier on, a spokesperson for Merseyside Police reported: "We are currently dealing with reports of a road traffic collision in Liverpool city centre. We were contacted at just after 6pm today, Monday May 26, following reports a car had been in collision with a number of pedestrians on Water Street.
"In a subsequent update, the force added: "We would ask people not to speculate on the circumstances surrounding tonight's incident on Water Street in Liverpool city centre. We can confirm the man arrested is a 53 year old white British man from the Liverpool area.
Extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances leading up to the collision. "Following the incident in Liverpool city centre this evening, we know that many people are concerned about loved ones.
"We would ask people not to share distressing content online but to send the footage or information directly to us @MerPolCC or pass on information by calling 101 quoting log 784."
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