Keir Starmer has said the “whole country stands with Liverpool” in the wake of Monday’s tragic scenes in the city center in which 47 people were injured.
Liverpool is still reeling from the horrendous events after the team’s victorious title-winning parade on Monday, which was attended by an estimated million jubilant fans. But those scenes of celebration turned to distress within minutes of the open-top bus’ departure, as a car ploughed into a crowd of pedestrians on Water Street.
A 53-year-old white British male was arrested at the scene and is believed to be the driver of the vehicle. Merseyside Police have since confirmed that the incident is not being treated as terrorist activity.
Starmer sent a message of support on Monday, but spoke again at a press conference on Tuesday morning (UK time). “Scenes of joy turned to utter horror and devastation,” the UK Prime Minister told reporters.
“My thoughts, and the thoughts of the whole country, are with all of those affected - those injured which includes children, their family and friends, the whole community and Liverpool fans everywhere. Liverpool stands together and the whole country stands with Liverpool.
“I’d like to thank the first responders who did a great job last night and continue to do so. There is now an ongoing investigation and I am being kept updated, talking regularly to the mayor Steven Rotheram.
“But my thoughts and the thoughts of the whole country will be with everyone in Liverpool today.”
Police officers stand guard by the Liverpool Town Hall following an incident in Water Street (rear), on the sidelines of an open-top bus victory parade for Liverpool's Premier League title win, in Liverpool, north-west England on May 26, 2025. A car collided with a number of pedestrians in Liverpool, northern England, on May 26 evening during Liverpool FC's Premier League victory parade, police said. Police said they were contacted shortly after 6pm (1700 GMT) 'following reports of a collision between a car and a number of pedestrians' in the city centre. One man has been arrested, according to the police, who did not say whether there were any casualties. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP) (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Up to 27 people received hospital treatment following Monday's incident in Liverpool city center. (Image: Getty Images)
Asked for an update on the police investigation, and the decision to name the race of the man arrested, Starmer replied: “That is a matter for the police and the investigation is ongoing so I think we need to leave that for them.
“I think today is a day for thinking about all those impacted and by being clear that we stand with them.”
Starmer’s statement came within minutes of an update from Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan, who thanked fans and the emergency services for their help on Monday.
Hogan sent his “heartfelt thoughts to all those who’ve been affected by this appalling incident” and promised to help the police with their investigation in any way possible.
Billy Hogan
Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan sent a message of support following Sunday's car crash in the city center.
Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp took to social media and wrote : “My family and I are shocked and devastated.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are injured and affected. You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Forty-seven people were injured on Monday, with 27 requiring hospital treatment. Two of those injuries were described as serious, one of which is a child.