Incident Overview
Paul Doyle, 54, has admitted guilt concerning his role in a catastrophic incident that injured multiple individuals during Liverpool’s victory parade on May 26. On Wednesday at Liverpool Crown Court, he faced a series of charges including dangerous driving, affray, and multiple counts related to grievous bodily harm and wounding with intent. This plea came unexpectedly on the second day of his trial, just as jurors were set to hear the prosecution’s arguments.
Details of the Incident
Initially, Doyle had denied all charges linked to the incident, which occurred when he drove his Ford Galaxy Titanium into a crowd celebrating Liverpool’s winning season. This unfortunate event unfolded around 6 p.m. as thousands gathered to partake in the festivities following the team’s Premier League triumph.
The crash resulted in reported injuries to over 130 people, with the victims ranging in age from six months to 77 years. Among them was infant Teddy Eveson, who was ejected from his stroller upon impact, with parents recounting the harrowing scene in which he was propelled approximately 15 feet down the street. Doyle subsequently confessed during the proceedings that he had attempted to cause grievous bodily harm to the young child. Due to legal restrictions, the names of several child victims involved cannot be disclosed.
Emotional Proceedings
Doyle, a former Royal Marine, displayed visible emotion throughout the proceedings, with tears falling as he altered his pleas, which took place while he was physically present in the courtroom alongside supportive family members. Prior hearings had also seen him become emotional as he appeared via video link from prison.
Parade Context
The parade that day was attended by thousands of devoted Liverpool supporters who had gathered for the event that commenced at 2:30 p.m. and traversed a distance of 15 kilometers before concluding in the city center. Earlier that day, the team bus had passed along The Strand, a route adjacent to Water Street, where the incident ultimately transpired. According to statements from Merseyside Police in May, it appeared that Doyle had followed an ambulance onto the street after temporary roadblocks were lifted to allow crew access to a person in need of urgent medical assistance.
