The driver who was arrested after a car ploughed into a crowd of people in Liverpool city centre following the Reds' title parade cannot currently be named - here's why
12:00, 27 May 2025Updated 12:03, 27 May 2025
The incident happened as crowds gathered for the victory parade
The incident happened as crowds gathered for the victory parade(Image: Liverpool Echo)
Following the shocking incident in Liverpool city centre last night, social media has been rife with speculation about the identity of the driver. Merseyside Police have swiftly confirmed that a 53-year-old white British man from the local area is suspected of being the driver who ploughed into a crowd in the city centre following Liverpool's title-winning parade.
However, as no charges have yet been made in connection to the incident, the police are unable to disclose the arrested man's name. The press are also bound by restrictions preventing them from identifying him.
A landmark Supreme Court ruling in 2022 established that individuals under criminal investigation have a reasonable expectation of privacy and the right not to be named by the press until charges are brought against them.
Thousands flocked to the city for the celebrations
Thousands flocked to the city for the celebrations(Image: PA)
Once someone is charged, the police typically release their name, street address and age. These details form part of their legal identity and help prevent misidentification of individuals with the same name.
The incident occurred around 6pm yesterday, Monday, May 26, when the city centre streets were teeming with hundreds of thousands of Reds' supporters. The Reds players had completed a 15km bus tour of the city, culminating in spectacular scenes on The Strand in the city centre, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Article continues below
Last night's press conference revealed that 47 individuals were injured in the incident, with 27 requiring hospital treatment. Tragically, four children were among the injured, and two people – including one of the children – are dealing with serious injuries.
In response to the emergency, Riva Blu restaurant was turned into an impromptu triage centre as paramedics were seen attending to victims inside.
47 people were hurt
47 people were hurt(Image: Phil Bryan/Shutterstock)
Merseyside Police's assistant chief constable Jenny Sims issued a statement: "Extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances leading up to the collision and it is vital that people do not speculate or spread misinformation on social media. I know that people will understandably be concerned by what has happened tonight."
She continued to clarify the current understanding of the situation: "What I can tell you is that we believe this to be an isolated incident and we are not currently looking for anyone else in relation to it. The incident is not currently being treated as terrorism."
Sims also made an appeal to the public for sensitivity and cooperation: "We would ask that people refrain from sharing distressing footage from the incident online and please share any information directly with our investigation team."
Adding to the comments, Mersey Fire and Rescue Service's chief fire officer Nick Searle said: "Firstly, our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by this incident this evening. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service were informed at 6.07pm, we immediately mobilised 3 fire engines to Water Street and were in attendance in 4 minutes."
Many were taken to hospital
Many were taken to hospital(Image: PA)
Upon their arrival, the emergency teams were greeted with a chaotic scene of multiple injuries and four individuals pinned under a vehicle. The fire brigade swiftly took action, as one spokesperson detailed: "On arrival the crews were met with numerous injured people and 4 persons trapped under a vehicle. Our crews rapidly lifted the vehicle, removed people from beneath and passed them to our ambulance colleagues."
They continued their life-saving efforts in collaboration with other services, ensuring the victims received prompt medical attention and transportation to hospital. "We then worked with emergency service partners to ensure casualties received medical treatment and transport to hospital as quickly as possible. My fire crews will maintain a visible and reassuring presence in the coming days and weeks."
Liverpool's council leader Cllr Liam Robinson urged the public to act responsibly in the aftermath of the tragedy: "I would appeal for people please not to share the horrifying footage of the incident on social media - please if you have information forward it to Merseyside Police to help them with their investigation."
He emphasised the importance of sensitivity and unity during this difficult time: "We won't be commenting any further but will provide relevant updates as and when we know more and it is appropriate to.Once again, our hearts go out to all those affected."
Article continues below
Cllr Robinson also highlighted the city's strong community spirit: "Liverpool is a city that has a proud history of coming together and supporting each other during challenging times. I've no doubt that will again be the case over the coming days and weeks."