Liverpool FC parade RECAP: Man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder as police confirm driver followed ambulance into street packed with football fans

It's been more than 24 hours since Liverpool FC's trophy parade descended into a scene of horror.

Although we're closing our live blog down for the evening, you can stay across the latest developments on MailOnline.

Before we go, here's a rundown from today's events:

• A 53-year-old white male has been arrested after a car ploughed into a crowd of Liverpool supporters during their Premier League trophy parade yesterday evening.
• Merseyside Police said that the man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs.
• The force said there were 65 confirmed casualties, including children, of which 50 were taken to hospital. 
• A total of 11 people remained in hospital for ongoing treatment as of Tuesday afternoon.
• Thousands were out on the streets to celebrate when the car came 'beeping' through the crowds and collided with pedestrians.
• The incident is not being treated as terror related and 'extensive enquiries' remain ongoing.

We briefly mentioned Daniel Eveson's story earlier this evening.

The father had gone to the Liverpool trophy parade with his wife and baby boy earlier, who were both hit by the car.

MailOnline has covered it in full as the father detailed the horrifying moment he thought he 'lost everything'.

Read the full story here...

A Liverpool fan run down at the club's victory parade has described how he 'locked eyes' with the driver moments before the car ploughed into him.

Jack Trotter, 22, was enjoying celebrating his team's success when he found himself 'face to face' with the Ford Galaxy on Water Street in the city centre on Monday.

The stricken Northern Irishman was helped by fellow fans and locals into a nearby pub until emergency services arrived to take him to hospital.

Mr Trotter, from Newtownards, County Down, escaped without serious injury and has been discharged from hospital, but fears he could be left with walking problems for weeks.

He had made the trip to Liverpool with his girlfriend, Abbie Gallagher, 22, who screamed out in terror when she saw the car coming towards him.

Mr Trotter said: 'Abbie was a few feet ahead of me, and I was just taking videos singing with Liverpool fans I'd never even met before.

'Then I just heard her screaming my name, I put my phone down and by then I was face to face with the car.

'He had slowed down. And then I put my hands up and pleaded for him to stop, and he wasn't stopping. Then he clipped me.'

'I did lock eyes with him,' he continued. 'People were hitting his car, shouting at him. 'Everything was very dark. Everything was very blurry. He had ran through me by the time I could get a good look at him.

'When the car had hit me, the adrenaline kicked in, and I didn't really, obviously feel anything. Once I found my partner, the adrenaline wore off, and then I just collapsed on the wall and said "Abbie, that's me, I'm gone".'

Mr Trotter said bystanders helped him away from the scene before firemen took him to an ambulance.

His picture was on the front page of many national newspapers.

Members of the Royal Family have said they are 'deeply saddened' after yesterday's horror incident on Water Street which saw dozens of pedestrians injured while at a Liverpool FC trophy parade.

Prince William and Catherine released a statement on Tuesday afternoon at the same time as King Charles and Queen Camilla, while Princess Anne paid a surprise visit to first responders at a major hospital in Liverpool.

The Prince and Princess of Wales said: 'We are deeply saddened by the scenes in Liverpool yesterday. What should have been a joyful celebration ended with tragedy.

'Our thoughts are with those who were injured and to the first responders and emergency services on the ground.'

King Charles, who is in Ottawa with Queen Camilla to mark the opening session of Canada's parliament, also said they were 'deeply shocked and saddened'.

'My wife and I were deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the terrible events that took place in Liverpool on Monday,' Charles, 76, said.

'It is truly devastating to see that what should have been a joyous celebration for so many could end in such distressing circumstances.

'At this heartbreaking time for the people of Liverpool, I know that the strength of community spirit for which your city is renowned will be a comfort and support to those in need.'

The King added that their 'prayers and deepest sympathy are with all those who have been affected' and thanked the emergency crews who rushed to the aid of those injured.

Meanwhile, his sister Anne paid a surprise visit to a Liverpool hospital to speak to medics and first responders who treated those injured in the parade carnage.

The Royal, 74, was in the city for another event and changed her plans so she could visit staff at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital as well.

On behalf of Princess Anne, a Buckingham Palace spokesman said the princess 'would like to share her heartfelt condolences and support for the families and communities affected'.

He added: 'Her royal highness also wishes to acknowledge the courage of the emergency services, some of whom she met today, and all those providing care and comfort during this difficult time.'

A father at yesterday’s parade said he thought he ‘lost everything’ as his baby boy was knocked 15ft and his wife was ran over in the collison.

Daniel Eveson, from Telford, Shropshire, had attended the celebrations with his son Teddy and his wife.

But after the trauma of watching the car strike his loved ones, Mr Eveson said the parade is now the ‘worst day of his life’.

He told the BBC: ‘It [the car] struck me in my chest, all the way down my left hand side.

‘My partner went under the wheel and the car went over her leg and she got dragged down the road.

‘Then my little boy got taken about maybe 15 feet down the road in his pram.

‘I didn't know where anyone was or what to do.I didn't know where my boy was and then I saw his pram, I didn't know whether or not he was alive.

Mr Eveson said he moved his partner to safety near the kerb and rushed his son Teddy to shelter where he assessed he had not been badly hurt.

He then went back outside to tell his wife their son was alive.

'I thought I'd lost everything I really did,' he added.

Mr Eveson's partner is still receiving treatment in hospital, while Teddy is recovering at home.

A 53-year-old man has been arrested after a car was ploughed into a crowd at Liverpool's victory parade.

He is accused of attempted murder, dangerous driving offences and driving under the influence of drugs, police said today.

Merseyside Police Detective Chief Superintendent Karen Jaundrill told reporters there were a total of 65 confirmed casualties, including children, following the incident on Water Street in the city centre yesterday.

A press conference also heard 50 people had been taken to hospital and 11 are receiving treatment as a result of the incident. All appear to be recovering well.

Here's a breakdown of how the events unfolded...

End of the parade

As the parade drew to a close on Monday evening, thousands of fans began making their way home. The area was closed off, with no vehicles allowed in. As reports emerged of someone suffering a heart attack in the crowd, a road block was temporarily lifted to let an ambulance crew in. Police think the Ford Galaxy was able to slip through behind it.

Dale Street

Footage of the incident circulating online appears to show the people carrier on Dale Street, just off the parade route. Surrounded by fans, the car suddenly reverses, hitting a person. The crowd reacts angrily, kicking and punching the vehicle. It reverses again, striking another bystander. Moments later, the car speeds forward, with fans chasing after it.

From another angle, footage shows people trying to get to the driver. One person manages to open the driver's door, and an object is thrown, smashing the rear window. The driver quickly slams the door shut, then accelerates, veering into pedestrians on both sides of the congested street.

Water Street

Footage taken as the car made its way down Dale Street and onto the connecting Water Street shows the vehicle ploughing into a crowd of people having gone around an ambulance. As the car finally comes to a stop, fans surge towards it and desperately try to get to the driver.

Videos show the aftermath of the incident, with injured people, a paramedic's bicycle and scattered debris littering the street.

Arrest

Officers quickly surround the car and detain the driver. A large number of officers could then be seen guarding the vehicle moments after the collision and pushing back fans.

The 53-year-old driver has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving and drug driving.

The man, from the West Derby area of Liverpool, remains in custody where he is being interviewed.

Former Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng has told Sky News that police were right to release the information about the suspect when they did.

Merseyside Police yesterday issued a statement shortly after reports of the incident first surfaced to say that a 53-year-old white male local to the area had been arrested.

It has led to discussions surrounding last year's delay in releasing information about Southport killer Axel Rudukubana due to the subsequent riots that followed.

Mr Kwarteng said: 'Police had to give information about the suspect very quickly because the fact that they didn't last year in that appalling incident in Southport led to speculation.

‘People are rightly concerned when they hear about incidents like this that it could be a terror attack.

‘I remember the Manchester Arena bombing and there are lots of incidents that we can all remember which were terror related.

‘It’s natural that people are going to wonder when an appalling human-driven tragedy like this happens that it might be a terrorist attack and I think that’s fair.

‘People need to know information about the suspect and the police themselves said they had learnt a lot from what happened in Southport.’

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has spoken to Sky News after arriving in Liverpool tonight to meet with emergency services in the aftermath of the horror Water Street Collision.

The broadcaster asked Ms Cooper whether Merseyside Police releasing details about the 53-year-old male who has been arrested was in relation to the Southport riots last year.

They also asked whether more could have been done to prevent the car from entering the parade.

Ms Cooper replied:

Police have an important investigation underway and they need to make the operational decisions [on releasing the ethnicity and age of the man arrested] but we saw yesterday a real celebration of joy turn into the most horrific incident.

While we are all thinking of those who were injured and wishing them the very best recovery, we also need to say a huge thanks to all those who responded and all those involved yesterday who did the most professional job to make sure lives were saved.

I have spoken to many of the police, fire service and ambulance service and the local authority. The professionalism of their response and the way they worked together to keep people safe was hugely important and we really thank them for that.

The investigation is ongoing and we need to let that take its course. They have my full support on that.

'My thoughts are with all those injured in this awful incident, their families and friends, and everyone who has been affected.

'Like us, many of you will still be coming to terms with what was a harrowing end to a day of celebration.

'I want to reassure the public of Merseyside that detectives are making significant progress as we seek to establish the full circumstances that led to this awful incident and bring the person responsible to justice.

'We have arrested a 53-year-old man from West Derby on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving offences and driving while unfit through drugs. He remains in custody where he is being interviewed.

'We have a total of 65 confirmed casualties, many of whom required hospital treatment, and our officers and family liaison officers are providing specialist support to a large number of the victims. Further work is ongoing to identify other people affected.

'We will continue to provide that support in the days and weeks to come.

'Due to the number of victims in this case, we have received assistance from neighbouring forces for which we are extremely grateful.

'Our detectives are of course speaking to any witnesses, including those injured, witnesses at the scene and emergency responders as we seek to get a full picture of exactly what happened.

'We have already had an incredible response from many of those who were there on the day, and I thank them for their co-operation with our investigation.took place.

'We have already had an incredible response from many of those who were there on the day, and I thank them for their co-operation with our investigation.

'I would encourage anyone who has not yet contacted police who may have information on this incident to do so.

Kids stuffed toys and Liverpool scarves are amongst the items strewn across Water Street after yesterday's collision.

Forensics officers have been on the scene all day as the clean-up from the incident ramps up.

Other items like crushed cans can be seen across the streets which were abandoned soon after the car ploughed through pedestrians.

'Good afternoon, I am Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims of Merseyside Police.

'I would like to thank the many victims and witnesses who have come forward with information to assist our investigation following yesterday’s devastating incident on Water Street in Liverpool city centre.

'Prior to the incident, hundreds of thousands of people lined the streets of Liverpool and the city centre to pay tribute to Liverpool Football Club as they paraded their Premier League trophy. The atmosphere was electric, but sadly just after 6pm the joy of the day dissipated quickly after more than 50 people were injured when a car collided with people gathered on Water Streets.

'We had worked extensively with event organisers and key partner agencies in the months ahead of the potential parade, and a robust traffic management plan was put in place, which included a number of local authority road closures throughout the route and the city centre.

'This included Water Street, which was closed to traffic. It is believed the driver of the Ford Galaxy car involved in the incident was able follow an ambulance onto Water Street, after the road block was temporarily lifted so that the ambulance crew could attend to a member of the public who was having a suspected heart attack.

'As with many large events, we plan for all contingencies and this included the implementation of road closures to protect pedestrians and an armed policing presence was also in place throughout the day. There was no intelligence to suggest an incident of this nature would take place and as we have previously stated, the incident is not being treated as terrorism.

'An extensive investigation into the precise circumstances of the incident are ongoing, and we continue to ask people not to speculate on the circumstances surrounding the incident and refrain from sharing distressing content online.

'I have no doubt regarding the impact that this appalling incident has had on those who were injured, their families and friends, and those who witnessed the incident unfolding in front of them.

'It is so heartening to hear that the public has also recognised the human impact on our attended officers, staff and other emergency service colleagues from North West Ambulance Service and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, and I want to personally thank the public for their support of first responders who were on the scene in a matter of seconds.

'Following the incident yesterday, I can confirm on behalf of the National Health Service that we are aware of 50 people who were treated at hospitals across the region. Of those, 11 remain in hospital for ongoing treatment. They are all in a stable condition and I’m pleased to say they appear to be recovering well.

'I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the brave members of the emergency services who were on the scene of yesterday’s incident within a matter of seconds.

'Following such a shocking event, they immediately ran towards an extremely uncertain and potentially dangerous situation in an effort to protect other members of the public and fellow emergency responders from harm.

'Merseyside Police continues to work with other emergency services, Liverpool City Council, the Liverpool City Combined Regional Authority, local hospitals and health providers and Liverpool Football Club collectively in response to this incident.

'An extensive investigation into the precise circumstances of the incident is ongoing, and we continue to ask people not to speculate on the circumstances surrounding the incident and refrain from sharing distressing content online.'

Buckingham Palace on behalf of Princess Anne praised the bravery of emergency responders at yesterday's collision.

The Royal, 74, had been in the city for another event and changed her plans so she could visit staff at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital this afternoon.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said the princess 'would like to share her heartfelt condolences and support for the families and communities affected'.

He added: 'Her royal highness also wishes to acknowledge the courage of the emergency services, some of whom she met today, and all those providing care and comfort during this difficult time.'

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has arrived in Liverpool this evening after 65 people were injured at the Premier League victory parade on Monday.

Ms Cooper is visiting the cordon of the incident on Water Street and can be seen meeting with emergency personnel.

Yesterday she thanked police and called the incident 'truly shocking and horrendous'.

She added: 'Thinking of all those affected at this very difficult time. The police are investigating and I'm being kept updated on developments.'

Liverpool FC star Trent Alexander-Arnold has spoken for the first time since yesterday's collision in the city centre.

The defender, 26, was on the open-top bus parade with his Liverpool teammates as it passed Water Street around 20 minutes before the horror unfolded.

He looked visibly emotional ahead of his summer move to Real Madrid having spent his entire childhood and professional career thus far with the Anfield side.

He posted this afternoon to Instagram: 'My thoughts are with the whole city, especially all affected by yesterday's devastating events.

'Hopefully those who were injured will make a full recovery and the city will continue to pull together as it always does.'

Medics told Princess Anne they were 'very fortunate' not to have dealt with more injuries as a result of yesterday's collision on Water Street.

The Royal, 74, had been in the city for another event and changed her plans so she could visit staff at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital this afternoon.

She was was accompanied by representatives from Liverpool Football Club and spoke to medics about their response to the incident.

Divisional Medical Director Marc Lucky told Princess Anne: 'It's a very good example of the resilience and people volunteering.

'We had too many people, which is a very interesting complaint to have.

He also told the Royal there were no 'major traumas' as a result of the collision.

Tony Bellew says he is 'so proud' of Liverpool after yesterday's incident on Water Street.

The Everton fan and former WBC title holder told Sky Sports News that he was 'gutted' to see the scenes when the city was 'enjoying one of its greatest times ever'.

He added: 'But once again, our city came together. The emergency services were fantastic, from the police to the ambulance service airlifting people to hospital.

'We galvanise and energise each other. It's never about red or blue, we're Scousers first and foremost. I'm so proud of the way the city has handled it.'

Crowds have descended upon Water Street today to lay flowers and tributes following yesterday's horror collision.

Merseyside Police Detective Chief Superintendent Karen Jaundrill said there were a total of 65 confirmed casualties, including children, following the incident yesterday.

A press conference also heard 50 people had been taken to hospital and are receiving ongoing treatment as a result of the incident, but all appear to be recovering well.

Thankfully there are no confirmed fatalaties.

Following the update from Merseyside Police, here's what we now know:

• A 53-year-old man arrested after a car ploughed into Liverpool fans enjoying a trophy parade is accused of attempted murder, dangerous driving offences and driving under the influence of drugs
• Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims (pictured) said the force believe the car which struck pedestrians was able to follow an ambulance crew attending to someone suffering a heart attack after a road block was temporarily lifted
• The force's detective chief superintendent Karen Jaundrill told reporters there were a total of 65 confirmed casualties, including children, following the incident on Water Street in the city centre yesterday
• A press conference also heard 50 people were taken to hospital and are receiving ongoing treatment as a result of the incident, but all appear to be recovering well
• The officer said that the white British man who had been arrested was from West Derby on Merseyside. She added that an 'extensive investigation' remained ongoing, with Merseyside Police receiving help from neighbouring forces

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper will visit Liverpool this evening after dozens of people were injured at the Premier League victory parade on Monday.

Ms Cooper is expected to visit the cordon of the incident and meet with emergency personnel.

Here's the top story on MailOnline following the update from Merseyside Police around an hour ago

Merseyside Police has confirmed it received help from neighbouring forces 'due to the number of victims'.

Detective Chief Superintendent Karen Jaundrill continued:

Extensive CCTV inquiries are being carried out across the city to establish the movements of the car, a Ford Galaxy, before the incident took place. We have already had an incredible response from many of those who were there last night.

A 53-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs after dozens of people were injured by a car at a parade to celebrate Liverpool winning the Premier League, Merseyside Police said.

The man, from the West Derby area of Liverpool, remains in custody where he is being interviewed.

Detective Chief Superintendent Karen Jaundrill told the press conference:

I want to reassure the public of Merseyside that detectives are making significant progress as we seek to establish the full circumstances that led to this awful incident and bring the person responsible to justice. We have a total of 65 confirmed casualties, many of whom required hospital treatment.

Further work is ongoing to identify other people affected, and we will continue to support these individuals in the days and weeks to come.

Eleven people remain in hospital and all are in a stable condition and appear to be recovering well, Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims told a press conference.

Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims has said it is believed that the car was able to follow an ambulance before ploughing into crowds of supporters.

She told a press conference at Merseyside Police headquarters:

It is believed the driver of the Ford Galaxy car involved in this incident was able to follow an ambulance onto Water Street after the road block was temporarily lifted so that the ambulance crew could attend to a member of the public who was having a suspected heart attack.

As with many large events, with event organisers we planned for all contingencies and this included the implementation of road closures to protect pedestrians and an armed policing presence was also in place throughout the day.

There was no intelligence to suggest an incident of this nature would take place, and as we previously stated, the incident is not being treated as terrorism.

An extensive investigation into the precise circumstances of the incident is ongoing and we continue to ask people not to speculate on the circumstances surrounding the incident and refrain from sharing distressing content online.

New CCTV footage has emerged of the driver weaving through crowds of football supporters moment before ploughing into fans.

The chilling video was captured before 47 people were injured when a vehicle sped into pedestrians at around 6pm last night.

Here are the latest photographs we can show youi from Liverpool as forensic investigators continue to work at the crash scene.

The Prince and Princess of Wales said they were 'deeply saddened' by the scenes that marred Liverpool’s victory parade on Monday.

William, who is patron of the Football Association, and his wife Kate said in a personal message on social media:

We are deeply saddened by the scenes in Liverpool yesterday. What should have been a joyful celebration ended with tragedy.

Our thoughts are with those who were injured and to the first responders and emergency services on the ground. W & C.

King Charles has released a statementfollowing the events during Liverpool’s Premier League title parade.

My wife and I were deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the terrible events that took place in Liverpool on Monday.

It is truly devastating to see that what should have been a joyous celebration for many could end in such distressing circumstances.

At this heartbreaking time for the people of Liverpool, I know that the strength of community spirit for which your city is renowned will be a comfort and support to those in need.

Our prayers and deepest sympathy are with all those who have been affected, and my special gratitude goes out to the first responders, emergency services personnel and other individuals who rushed to the aid of the injured.

Charles issued the statement as he prepares to give a speech in Ottawa to mark Canada's state opening of parliament.

Details are continuing to emerge following horrific scenes in Liverpool city centre yesterday when a car ploughed into crowds of footballers celebrating Liverpool FC's title parade.

We've brought you the latest developments today and will continue to do so throughout the afternoon, but for now, here's what you need to know:

• A new theory has suggested the driver title parade may have been attempting to follow an ambulance when crowds were hit in Water Street
• Liverpool city mayor Steve Rotheram earlier confirmed four people remain 'very ill' in hospital and that he hoped they can make a full recovery
• Keir Starmer said the nation 'stands with Liverpool' as the Prime Minister offered his support to the city as it tries to come to terms with the tragedy.
• Liverpool legends Steven Gerrard and Jurgen Klopp became the latest to send their condolences to the victims as the pair told of their devastation
• Officials say the big question to answer is how the car managed to access Water Street which had been blocked off as part of the club's title celebrations
• Families and eyewitnesses have recalled the moment scenes of joy turned to horror

by Claire Duffin for the Daily Mail

Princess Anne paid a surprise visit to a Liverpool hospital on Tuesday to speak to medics and first responders who treated those injured in the parade carnage.

The Royal, 74, was in the city for another event and changed her plans so she could visit staff at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital as well.

A number of those wounded in the incident on Monday night were taken to the hospital, the largest in the city.

Staff and visitors lined to corridors to greet the Princess on Tuesday afternoon. The Royal, wearing a bright red jacket and burgundy skirt, was given a round of applause after speaking to paramedics and ambulance staff. She spent around 50 minutes at the hospital.

The Princess, one of the hardest working Royals, was accompanied by representatives from Liverpool Football Club.

Earlier in the day, she was given a tour of the luxury cruise liner the Queen Anne on the River Mersey in Liverpool, to mark the 185th anniversary of the shipping firm, Cunard.

The fleet's latest vessel, the Queen Anne, arrived in Liverpool on Monday in time to provide a backdrop for the open-top bus Premier League parade. The ship had her naming ceremony in the city last year.

Downing Street has said that police are 'operationally independent' when it comes to information they choose to release, after the incident in Liverpool.

Merseyside Police confirmed they had arrested a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area around two hours after the incident on Monday that left dozens of people, including four children, hurt.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said:

It is always up to the police operationally to decide what information goes into the public domain and when, and it’s right that the police obviously are operationally independent when it comes to those decisions.

Asked if Sir Keir Starmer was pleased that the information had been released, the spokesman said:

The PM always supports the police operating independently and they’ve obviously operated independently on this. As the PM said this morning it is a matter for the police and today we’re focused on thinking about all those who have been impacted by this incident.

Up to a million Liverpool supporters were believed to be celebrating in the city centre yesterday to celebrate the club's second Premier League title.

We've now heard from many witnesses who've spoken about the moment those joyous scenes took a horrifying twist just after 6pm when a car ploughed into crowds.

Let's recap what they have had to say:

• Patrick Milligan

We all had the best day of our lives watching the parade and then it was like a tsunami within about 5 minutes of the parade finishing. It was horrific.The car just swerved into the crowd at speed and everyone was screaming.

• Chelsea Yuen

When the car came plummeting down it was inevitable it was going to hit people. When we heard the beeping of the driver that was coming through the crowds, that's when we looked up and seen the car coming towards us. We just narrowly missed being hit and we were able to jump out the way into as much safety as we could be. Then unfortunately it carried on and continued into the other people behind us.

• Mark Leavy

I will never forget the noise of the people being hit and I will never forget the look on a policeman's face and his uniform covered in blood. My God, what he must have seen.

Liverpool FC captain Virgil van Dijk said he was 'praying for a speedy recovery' for all those injured in the crash following the club’s title parade.

The Dutch defender posted on Instagram:

My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected. Praying for a speedy recovery for everyone who suffered injuries. We are all with you.

The driver who ploughed into crowds in Water Street had earlier passed a road closed sign, a witness has claimed.

Ross Welsh, who travelled from Lisburn in Northern Ireland to the Liverpool parade, told BBC Radio Ulster’s The Nolan Show that cars were passing further up the road but the driver 'navigated' a sign declaring no access.

He said:

Then there it was beeping and it screeched its tyres to brake. We had to jump to get out of the way. It wasn’t very, very close, but it was close enough that we felt we had to get out of the way quick.

Keir Starmer's support to Liverpool following the parade incident are 'deeply appreciated', the city's mayor Steve Rotheram has said.

The Prime Minister said earlier the nation was standing with Liverpool and that he was receiving regular updates alongside Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.

Legendary Liverpool footballer Steven Gerrard says he 'shocked, sickened and saddened' after a car ploughed through crowds celebrating the club's title win.

The former Reds captain who led the club to success in the 2005 Champions League released a statement on Instagram earlier today.

Shocked, sickened, and saddened at the incident we all witnessed in our city last night. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the people involved and their families.

Gerrard joins Jurgen Klopp in sending his condolences to the victims while fellow Anfield favourites Robbie Fowler and Jamie Carragher spoke out last night.

The driver of a car that ploughed into crowds celebrating Liverpool FC's title parade may have been attempting to follow an ambulance, the Liverpool Echo is reporting.

The Echo has reported it has heard from multiple sources that the motorist may have been tailgating the emergency services before hitting dozens of people on Water Street.

According to the newspaper, police are considering this as a line of enquiry as to how the car managed to access the pedestrianised street.

Police in white forensic suits have arrived on Water Street where they have began taking photographs of the area.

They could be seen going into a white tent at the scene.

From left to right: Grandparents Peter and Marie, Danny, 11, and his dad Paul

A family caught up in the parade horror have told how heroic Liverpool fans pushed them out of harms way when a car was being driven towards them at speed.

The O'Brien family from Slane, County Meath, were among jubilant Liverpool fans celebrating the club's victory parade yesterday when joy turned to tragedy.

Paul O'Brien, 39, pictured above with his 11-year-old son Danny and parents Peter and Marie said the incident could have been far more serious if it wasn't for quick-thinking football fans.

He told MailOnline:

We were walking up the street and the car came round the corner through the crowd at considerable speed hitting young fans.

We've seen Liverpool supporters jump on top of the car, being heroic, pushing us to the side. The Liverpool people were fantastic, they tried to stop the car, got it to a standstill and protected people so it would have been much more a lot more serious without the Liverpool supporters.

Metro mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram said rumours surrounding the parade incident spread online really quickly.

He said:

If you have a look at my timeline there was somebody very quickly saying ‘why are you lying? There’s been another incident in another part of the city’, which obviously wasn’t true.

And then they were trying to stir up who might be responsible for it, and that’s why I think the police acted, not just appropriately, but very, very quickly, to dampen that sort of speculation because it was designed to inflame. It was designed to divide. The message of hate doesn’t go down well here.

Asked what the police decision to release details of the suspect’s race said about the state of the country, he said:

It says that social media is a cesspit.

Liverpool FC chief executive Billy Hogan thanked the club’s supporters who 'helped each other' after a car drove through fans celebrating in the city on Monday.

He said:

This weekend was one of celebration, emotion and joy spread across the city in our entire fanbase, and it ended in unimaginable scenes of distress with this appalling incident.

I’d like to pay tribute to our emergency services and partner agencies – Merseyside Police, North West and St John Ambulance Services, and Merseyside Fire and Rescue – who dealt with the incident, and now our hospital staff across the city who are dealing with those who are injured, including tragically four children.

I would also like to thank our supporters who witnessed this event and helped each other where they could. We continue to work with the emergency services and the local authorities to support their ongoing investigation and once again we would ask if anyone has any further information about the incident, please contact Merseyside Police.

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp with his successor Arne Slot

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who attended the Premier League title parade in Liverpool on Monday, said he was 'shocked and devastated'.

He said in a post on Instagram:

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.

• Read more here from our colleagues at MailSport

Sir Keir Starmer has said that it is a 'matter for the police' that they gave details about the man who was arrested after a car ploughed into a crowd celebrating Liverpool’s Premier League win.

Asked if he would like to see similar details released in the future in similar cases, the Prime Minister said:

That is a matter for the police and the investigation is ongoing so I think we need to leave that to them. I think today is a day really for thinking about all those impacted by this and being absolutely clear that we stand with them.

The Prime Minister said the whole country 'stands with Liverpool' after a car ploughed into crowds in the city yesterday evening.

Sir Keir Starmer said the nation’s thoughts are with the victims and the wider community.

He said:

Scenes of joy turned to utter horror and devastation, and my thoughts and the thoughts of the whole country are with all of those that are affected, those injured, which of course includes children, their families, their friends, the whole community, Liverpool fans everywhere.

Liverpool stands together and the whole country stands with Liverpool. I’d like to thank the first responders who did a fantastic job last night and continue to do so. There’s now an ongoing investigation. I’m being kept updated, talking frequently to the mayor Steve Rotheram. But as I say, my thoughts and the thoughts of the whole country will be with everybody in Liverpool today.

Liverpool City Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram said the question in the forefront of everybody’s minds is why did a car end up in Water Street, Liverpool, on Monday night.

He told BBC Radio 5 Live:

The question, let’s be honest, that everybody’s sort of, it’s in the forefront of their minds is why did a car end up in Water Street and that’s for the police now to conclude their investigations, we’ll find out the reason why it was there.

Asked about casualties, he said:

Yesterday I was with the police and obviously they’ve reported on a number of serious injuries, one, at least, critical, we’ll have to wait until the update later today from that, but signs were fairly positive, and I think the fortunate thing is the ambulance service themselves were on scene, I mean there was an ambulance yards away and there were lots of police and as the event is happening the police are running towards this event.

Fans of Liverpool FC should have been partying into the early hours yesterday as the Reds celebrated their Premier League title with a street parade.

Instead, 27 people are in hospital, including children, while another 20 are nursing minor injuries this morning after a grey Ford Galaxy people carrier careened into crowds of fans, turning jubilant celebrations into a twisted nightmare.

Among those injured, four were trapped under the car and had to be removed by paramedics and fire officers.

But how did a title win party to remember turn into one to forget? Our analysis of multiple social media videos, map data and witness statements reveals more about how the incident came to pass.

Read more here:

Police cordons have remained in place on Water Street.

A large police van was parked in front of a blue tent on the road and officers were stationed along the street.

Empty bottles and cans littered the road and a Liverpool flag was attached to the top of traffic lights.

Liverpool Football Club have postponed further events planned today to celebrate winning the Premier League, the BBC is reporting.

According to leaked email sent last night, a number of internal staff events will no longer take place later.

Employees were also reportedly told the club 'will continue to offer our full support to the emergency services and local authorities'.

A former Metropolitan Police chief superintendent said it was 'unprecedented' that the police 'very quickly' gave the ethnicity and race of the suspect in the Liverpool incident.

Dal Babu told BBC Radio 5 Live:

What we do have, which is unprecedented, is the police very quickly giving the ethnicity and the race of the person who was driving the vehicle and I think that was, and it was Merseyside Police who didn’t give that information with the Southport horrific murders of those three girls, and the rumours were that it was an asylum seeker who arrived on a boat and it was a Muslim extremist and that wasn’t the case.

So I think what the police have done very very quickly, and I’ve never known a case like this before where they’ve given the ethnicity and the race of the individual who was involved in it, so I think that was to dampen down some of the speculation from the far-right that sort of continues on X even as we speak that this was a Muslim extremist and there’s a conspiracy theory.

Asked if it was a result of Merseyside Police having learned the lessons from what happened after Southport, he said:

Yeah, absolutely, I think you’re spot on. It’s remarkably striking because police will not release that kind of information because they’ll be worried about prejudicing any future trial, but I think they have to balance that against the potential of public disorder and we had massive public disorder after the far-right extremists had spread these rumours.

Comedian John Bishop and singer Natasha Hamilton have led the celebrity tributes to victims after a driver ploughed through crowds celebrating Liverpool FC's title victory.

Bishop, 58, who was attending the city parade with his father Edward, has posted on Instagram this morning.

I was at the parade today with my dad and like everyone else I am shocked and heartbroken about the events at the end of the Liverpool parade. My heart goes out to all those affected. Our anthem could not be more appropriate. You'll never walk alone.

Liverpool-born Atomic Kitten star Hamilton, 42, revealed her father had been attending the event with a family member when the carnage unfolded.

Sharing a picture of them together shortly before the incident, she wrote:

My dad and nephew were in Liverpool today at the celebration parade. Then I saw a video of what happened and my heart sank. Thankfully they're both safe but I'm absolutely horrified at what I saw today and my thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

• To read more click here

This is the moment Liverpool fans desperately intervened to try and stop a driver from ploughing into crowds at their Premier League victory parade.

Nearly 50 people have been injured after a car rammed into a group of nearly a million supporters who had gathered in the city centre yesterday - with four still seriously ill in hospital.

Footage from Water Street - where the chaos unfolded - shows fans surrounding a Ford Galaxy and shouting 'what are you doing?' and 'get out of the car' to the man at the wheel.

After briefly edging forward, the vehicle then reverses through the tightly packed crowds before surging forward with its horn beeping.

Witnesses claimed the car accelerated, swerved, and mounted the pavement before 'all hell broke loose' as it rammed through the crowds for 200 yards - sending people 'flying in all directions'.

• To read more click here

If you're just joining us this morning, we have resumed our live coverage into the Liverpool parade incident when a car ploughed into football supporters during a victory parade to celebrating winning the Premier League.

Merseyside Police are continuing to investigate the collision following the arrest of a 53-year-old British man last night.

Some questions remain unanswered, so let's take a look at what we don't know this morning.

• Driver's motive?

Merseyside Police have already confirmed the incident is not terror-related and urged against the public speculating why crowds were driven through. A witness has claimed that the driver had just left a nearby bar moments before but Liverpool mayor Steve Rotheram said earlier, 'I don't think it's worth us speculating on what might have happened to the driver.'

• Who is the driver?

Police have confirmed a 53-year-old white British man, who is local, was arrested but authorities are yet to release a name. Mr Rotheram insisted the police's decision to reveal the driver's British nationality was the 'right thing to do' to negate 'nefarious' actors.

• How did car drive through celebrations?

Police have said they will investigate the circumstances of the incident which will certainly include how a car was able to access a street that had been pedestrianised for Liverpool FC's victory parade. A security expert has said a vehicle should not have been allowed near the celebrations.

• Who are the victims?

Steve Rotheram said four people remain 'very ill' in hospital with 47 people in total injured last night. The identities of those injured are yet to be released.

One woman who was in Water Street at the time a car ploughed into Liverpool supporters has told how she managed to jump out of the way to avoid being hit.

Chelsea said she was only 'skimmed' by the vehicle as she reacted to crowds panicking in the city centre during the club's Premier League victory parade.

She told BBC Radio 5 Live:

We heard beeping and screaming and as we looked up the car was coming directly for us and for everybody else and we just jumped, I grabbed my friend to jump out the way and she grabbed her daughter, and it just skimmed us.

It must’ve been going about 30mph and then we were just in shock that we just nearly got run over but we didn’t really know the gravity of it at that point and we were just in shock, then we saw everybody chasing the car afterwards with all the windows smashed.

All of a sudden you just saw people lying on the floor and several police officers running towards the scene.

A security expert has claimed Merseyside Police will have questions to answer following the Liverpool parade incident as he said a car shouldn't have been allowed near the celebrations.

Lee Dodderidge, a former member of the UK's national counter terrorism security office, told Sky News:

The immediate thought for me was how was a vehicle allowed to be amongst so many people? Initially people talking about tens of thousands and hundreds of thousands in the area.

I've got to say it is just alarming a vehicle was allowed to be so close. You allow for emergency service vehicles, it doesn't matter what the motive was, we know it wasn't terrorism. Really, a vehicle should not have been allowed anywhere near those celebrations.

MailOnline has approached Merseyside Police for comment

The Liverpool parade horror is splashed on many of today's newspaper front pages including the Daily Mail.

To read our top story on MailOnline click here

Alison McGovern, MP for Birkenhead, called on the public not to speculate following the 'really awful' incident in Liverpool.

She told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme she felt 'so devastated' after spending four hours at the Liverpool’s Premier League victory parade.

Asked about how important Merseyside Police’s announcement of an arrest was on Sunday evening, the Labour MP said:

The police gave out some very clear messages yesterday, not least that if people have got footage or anything that might be useful to them, then please, please give it to Merseyside Police and don’t speculate on the internet or share things like that.

In Merseyside, I think the police have been through quite a lot in recent times and they’re very, very capable, and I would ask people to listen to them and to do as they’ve asked.

Liverpool mayor Steve Rotheram has insisted the police's decision to reveal the driver's British nationality was the 'right thing to do' to negate 'nefarious' actors.

Merseyside Police released information concerning the driver's nationality and ethnicity last night in its first statement following the incident.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Mr Rotheram said:

It was absolutely the right thing to do (disclosing nationality). There were some nefarious groups trying to stir up speculation over who was responsible for it. The whole idea was put to bed

Don't forget that within the city at that time there were still hundreds of thousands of people.

Merseyside Police has adopted a 'complete step change' in sharing information with the public after a car ploughed into a crowd in the city centre, one of its former inspectors has said.

Four children were among about 50 people injured during Liverpool’s Premier League victory parade on Sunday, with the force not treating the incident as terrorism after a 53-year-old man was arrested.

Peter Williams, senior lecturer in policing at Liverpool John Moores University, told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme the quicker response was very different to what happened after the Southport terror attack in July last year.

He said:

It has been a shift, because, particularly in relation to the aftermath of Southport… there was a lot of criticism focused at Merseyside Police and of course the CPS, in relation to how the management of information was sort of dealt with.

But also, if listeners cast their mind back further, is the investigation into Nicola Bulley as how the management of the information was responded to on that occasion. That led to a College of Policing inquiry.

Mr Williams said one of the recommendations made after the Southport attack was to prevent any 'vacuums' of information in future incidents, particularly where there is harmful online content.

MailOnline's Chris Matthews is reporting from Liverpool this morning and has told how Liverpudlians are trying to come to terms with what's happened.

He tells us:

On the streets of Liverpool this morning, the streets are littered with what should have been the remnants of the club’s Premier League-winning parade.

However, in between the beer bottles, the red flares, and the confetti are signs of the horror that unfolded.

Metres away from where a car ploughed into a crowd at the end of the parade, a child’s soft toy is lying in the street.

Flags and banners are caught in the barriers and full packs of beer have been left behind amongst. Even now, there’s still a sense of confusion on the streets.

A security guard I spoke to complained about the road being cordoned off — he had no idea about the tragedy that unfolded. Elsewhere Liverpudlians waking up and trying to come to terms with what’s happened.

Mr Rotheram has also confirmed four people remain 'very ill in hospital' in the first update on the parade victims this morning.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, he said:

The actual incident in Water Street will live with those people for all the wrong reasons, and that’s where we have to really focus our minds.

There are still four people who are very, very ill in hospital and we are hoping of course that they pull through very, very quickly.

Asked whether that figure was an increase on the previous number believed to be seriously injured, which was one adult and one child, Mr Rotheram added:

No, not directly, but of course we're in liaison with the police and with the ambulance services. Last night they had two gold command meetings - one was really late in the evening, so this morning I'll get some updates.

A BBC reporter has recalled the moment joy in Liverpool city centre turned to horror when a car ploughed into supporters celebrating the club's Premier League title parade.

Dan Ogunshakin, a BBC Sport journalist based in the north-west, said:

I was congregating around by the Liver building with thousands of others waiting in the rain for the parade. We were treated to a sight of the triumphant team'

Thousands of people enjoying themselves. But we then noticed a car in front of the ambulance and we both thought how strange it was - the next thing we noticed was people gathering around the car. Shaking it, hitting it and people were getting quite angry. Then everything changed and the car reversed and hit into the crowd

People did scatter incredibly quickly but no real surprise because the car did accelerate very very quickly. All of a sudden it was like all hell had broken loose. People were flying in all directions. We saw a gentleman come towards us who was unconsolable - in floods of tears.

Here are the latest pictures from Liverpool city centre we can show you this morning as police cordons remain in place.

Liverpool mayor Steve Rotheram has urged people not to speculate on what happened to the driver in an interview with the BBC this morning.

Asked whether the incident may have been alcohol related given the number of bars on Water Street, Mr Rotheram said:

There's a lot of speculation and that's part of the problem. All those things caused real consternation, but the police acted very, very quickly to put paid to some of that speculation.

I don't think it's worth us speculating on what might have happened to the driver.

Mr Rotheram added that he had spoken to Sir Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper who are continuing to receive updates from emergency services.

We are resuming our live coverage this morning after a car ploughed into Liverpool supporters celebrating the club's Premier League title victory.

Before we bring you the latest updates, let's recap what happened last night:

• A 53-year-old white male has been arrested after a car ploughed into a crowd of Liverpool supporters during their Premier League trophy parade yesterday evening.
• Thousands were out on the streets to celebrate when the car came 'beeping' through the crowds and collided with pedestrians.
• Emergency services rushed to Water Street shortly within minutes, with dramatic images quickly surfacing that showed police cordons and a strong presence of officers, ambulances and a fire engine at the scene.
• Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer branded the scenes as 'appalling', stating that the country 'stands with Liverpool'.
• A total of 27 people were taken to hospital. Of those, one adult and one child were seriously injured. Another 20, including four children, were treated at the scene.
• A paramedic on a bike was also struck but not seriously injured.
• When emergency services arrived at the scene, four people were trapped under the vehicle, including one child, the fire service said.
• The incident is not being treated as terror related and 'extensive enquiries' remain ongoing.

In a press conference last night, Dave Kitchin, head of North West Ambulance Service, said that 27 patients were taken to hospital following the incident, including four children.

One of the children and another member of the public sustained serious injuries.

Three adults and one child was trapped under the vehicle and had to be extracted by fire crews.

Another 20 patients were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims also confirmed that the Water Street collision is not being treated as an act of terrorism.

She said: 'The car stopped at the scene and a 53-year-old white, British man from the Liverpool area was arrested.

'We believe him to be the driver of the vehicle.'

Ian Byrne, MP for Liverpool West Derby, has announced his 'heartbreak' at the devastation seen at yesterday's parade, which left 47 people hurt and 27 hospitalised after a car ploughed into crowds gathered on Water street.

Mr Byrne said: 'Absolutely heartbroken by the scenes in town, after what should have been the best of days. My love and thoughts are with all affected'.

2.30pm

As the bus made its way along Allerton Maze, players waved to thousands of cheering fans who showed up to watch them set off.

Stars including Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah led celebrations atop the open-top bus.

Crowds of people in Liverpool covered in face-paint lined the street, dancing, waving flags and painting the sky red with flares and confetti.

4pm

Merseyside police issued a warning to the floods of people celebrating.

They said: 'Please keep yourselves and other people safe during today's #LFC Victory Parade by not climbing buildings, structures, scaffolding or street furniture. Th

'The parade route covers 10 miles and there are plenty of safe vantage points to see the LFC bus. Hope everyone has a great day!'

5pm

The parade was over half-way through and the bus was making its way towards the city centre.

It started off by driving down Leeds Street before arriving at the Strand and was meant to end on Blundell Street.

5.48pm

The Strand was heaving with people as Calvin Harris played the song One Kiss, fireworks exploded and fans danced and cheered.

6pm

Just after 6pm on Water Street, in the heart of Liverpool's city centre, a car ploughed into a crowd of excited people.

Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes, with dramatic images showing police cordons, litter strewn across the road, and a strong presence of officers, ambulances and even a fire engine.

The car, described by witnesses as 'beeping' as it made its way through the crowds, eventually came to a halt at the scene.

6.42pm

Police vehicles, fire engines and ambulances were stationed around the Water Street area as the main road was cordoned off.

7pm

It was announced that the car was stopped at the scene and a man was arrested.

Merseyside Police said: 'We are currently dealing with reports of a road traffic collision in Liverpool city centre.

'We were contacted at just after 18:00 today, following reports a car had been in collision with a number of pedestrians on Water Street.

'The car stopped at the scene and a male has been detained.

'Emergency services are currently on the scene.'

7.33pm

Prime Minister Keir Starmer released a statement.

He wrote: 'The scenes in Liverpool are appalling — my thoughts are with all those injured or affected.

'I want to thank the police and emergency services for their swift and ongoing response to this shocking incident.

'I'm being kept updated on developments and ask that we give the police the space they need to investigate.'

8.09pm

Merseyside Police confirmed the man arrested is a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area.

10.55pm

During a press conference, Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable, Jenny Sims confirmed that 27 people had been taken to hospital following the carnage. Of those, one adult and one child were seriously injured.

She also said the Water Street collision is not being treated as an act of terrorism.

BBC News' reporter Hamzah Abbas has described a somber atmosphere at Liverpool Lime Street station tonight, as crowds of people wait to catch their trains home.

Mr Abbas, who said he was in a 'long queue' at the popular station, described how in contrast to the usual celebratory scenes expected after a victory parade, 'no one feels like singing tonight'.

Sir Kenny Dalglish, who Liverpool fans often refer to as 'King Kenny' and consider a club legend, has spoken publicly about his 'shock' towards the carnage at Liverpool's parade.

Sir Dalglish managed Liverpool FC from May 1985 to February 1991, and also from January 2011 to May 2012.

Taking to social media platform X, a statement by Sir Dalglish read: 'Shocked, horrified and deeply saddened about what happened at the end of the parade today.

'Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone and their families who have been impacted by today's tragic event.

'Our anthem has never felt more appropriate, You'll Never Walk Alone. Your Liverpool family are behind you.'

Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims confirmed in last night's press confrence that 'extensive enquiries' into the circumstances leading up to the collision are ongoing.

She added: 'I know that people will understandably be concerned by what has happened tonight.

'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 being treated as terrorism.'

Meanwhile, Liverpool Liverpool City Council Leader Liam Robinson confirmed that they 'won't be commenting any further' on the incident, but would 'provide relevant updates as and when we know more and it is appropriate to'.

Cllr Robinson also appealed to the public to avoid sharing any horrifying footage of the incident on social media.

He said: ‘‘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.'

Liverpool fans attending the club's Premier League trophy parade yesterday evening have spoken of the horror that unfolded after a car ploughed into a large crowd of supporters just after 6pm.

One fan, who survived the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, was at Monday's parade and struck by car knocking him to the floor.

Frankie, 24, told the Mail: 'I was at the Manchester Arena incident. I don't want to go out again.

'The side of the car went into me and I fell to the floor. It's all a blur. I've got cuts and bruises and I'll be fine but there's loads who have got more severe injuries.'

Patrick Milligan, 25, from Wigan said: 'We all had the best day of our lives watching the parade and then it was like a tsunami within about five minutes of the parade finishing. It was horrific.

'The car just swerved into the crowd at speed and everyone was screaming.

'We now know our families are okay but at the time, I had no idea if my brothers or sisters were under the car. My Nan's 84 so we were all fearing the worst.'

Sonny Singh, 40, who was there with his two son, aged nine and 13, told the Guardian he saw an injured teenager and dozens of people run past him 'crying and angry'.

He said: 'People were running, screaming, I saw a boy, probably about 15, holding his leg and bleeding.  There were loads of people there.'

Reaffirming his support for the people of Liverpool on Monday evening, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said that he had spoken with the city's mayor, Steve Rotheram.

He also thanked the city's emergency teams for 'supporting and caring for those injured in these terrible events'.

The Prime Minister added: 'Everyone, especially children, should be able to celebrate their heroes without this horror.

'The city has a long and proud history of coming together through difficult times.

'Liverpool stands together and the whole country stands with Liverpool.'

During tonight's press conference, Cllr Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said tonight's events have 'cast a dark shadow over what had been a joyous day for the city'.

Cllr Robinson added:'I'd like to start by saying on behalf of everyone in Liverpool how much our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this appalling incident in the city centre.

'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.'

A Liverpool FC fan who is receiving hospital treatment after being hit by a car during today's Premier League title parade has said they are in 'absolute agony'.

Jack Trotter, of Newtonards, County Down, Northern Ireland, was one of the thousands of fans who took to the street of Liverpool to watch the open top bus parade.

He had travelled to Liverpool especially for the parade with friends from Northern Ireland and spoke to BBC News Northern Ireland from hospital.

During a press conference this evening, Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable, Jenny Sims confirmed that 27 people had been taken to hospital following the carnage. Of those, one adult and one child were seriously injured.

During a press conference this evening, Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims said the Water Street collision is not being treated as an act of terrorism.

She added: 'I know that people will understandably be concerned by what has happened tonight.

'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 being treated as terrorism.'

Nearly six hours since the carange unfolded at the Liverpool FC parade, this is what we know so far:

• A 53-year-old white male has been arrested after a car ploughed into a crowd of Liverpool supporters during their Premier League trophy parade this evening.
• Emergency services rushed to Water Street shortly after 6pm tonight and dramatic images quickly surfaced showing police cordons and a strong presence of officers, ambulances and a fire engine at the scene.
• Thousands were out on the streets to celebrate when the car came 'beeping' through the crowds and collided with pedestrians.
• Witnesses say they saw the car coming at speed before it crashed into the crowds of revellers.
• Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has branded the scenes as 'appalling'.
• A total of 27 people were taken to hospital. Of those, one adult and one child were seriously injured.
• Another 20, including four children, were treated at the scene.
• A paramedic on a bike was also struck but not seriously injured.
• When emergency services arrived at the scene, four people were trapped under the vehicle, including one child, the fire service said.
• The incident is not being treated as terror related and 'extensive enquiries' remain ongoing.

Pictures from Water Street, near the Liver Building in Liverpool show the scene hours after a car ploughed into a crowd of people during Liverpool FC's Premier League victory parade.

A number of tents have been set up inside the police cordon along the street and in the surrounding area.

Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has taken to X to call for the public to be made aware of the 'facts' of tonight's incident in Liverpool 'as soon as possible'.

He said: 'My thoughts are with the victims, Liverpool fans and the people of that great City this evening.

'The appalling footage depcits a car being driven into fans as they celebrated Liverpool's Premier League win.

'The public deserve to know the full facts as quickly as possible'.

Les Winsper, 55, who was present at the Premier League Parade has shared with The Guardian how the terrifying incident unfolded in front of his eyes.

He told the newspaper: 'People started banging on the (car) windows.

'Then they smashed the windows and he panicked and put his foot down.

'He then hit someone and that person has gone in the air and he's ploughed through the rest of them.

'I've never seen anything like it.'

Firefighters had to rescue four people, including a child, who were trapped under the car that hit pedestrians during the Liverpool Football Club victory parade in the city centre, Nick Searle, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service chief fire officer said.

Speaking to the press conference, he said his crews were able to mobilise three fire engines to the scene and 'were in attendance in four minutes'.

Mr Searle added: 'On arrival, the crews were met with numerous injured... and four persons trapped under a vehicle.

'Our crews rapidly lifted the vehicle, removed three adults and one child from beneath and passed them to our ambulance service colleagues.

'We then worked with emergency service partners to ensure casualties received medical treatment and transport to hospital as quickly as possible."

He added: "My fire crews will maintain a visible and reassuring presence in the coming days and weeks.'

Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims said a 'robust' traffic management plan had been in place for the parade before a car ploughed through dozens of Liverpool fans on Water Street.

She said: 'In the lead-up to this event we had been working closely with event organisers and a robust traffic management plan was put in place for the parade, which included a number of road closures throughout the route and the city centre.

She also urged people to refrain from sharing 'distressing footage' from the incident online but called for videos to be passed to the police.

By Dominic King

The greatest day became one of the darkest days. How could this happen? One moment there was a tickertape explosion, the sky thick with plumes of red smoke, the new smell of celebration.

Then, in the next step, came the piercing shrill of screams, flashing blue lights and the overwhelming sense of horror. They had descended in their hundreds of thousands in celebration. They left having witnessed a tragedy, knowing a city was in mourning.

Read more...

e...

Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims said the Water Street collision is not being treated as an act of terrorism.

She told a press conference: 'The car stopped at the scene and a 53-year-old white, British man from the Liverpool area was arrested.

'We believe him to be the driver of the vehicle.

'Extensive inquiries 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.

'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 being treated as terrorism.'

By Liz Hull

Dave Kitchin, head of North West Ambulance Service, said 27 patients were taken to hospital including four children. One of the children and another member of the public sustained serious injuries.

Three adults and one child was trapped under the vehicle and had to be extracted by fire crews.

Another 20 patients were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Liverpool City Council Leader Liam Robinson said the incident had cast a ‘dark shadow’ over what was supposed to have been a ‘joyous’ celebration.

‘I’d like to start by saying on behalf of everyone in Liverpool how much our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this appalling incident in the city centre,’ he said.

‘It has cast a very dark shadow over what had been a joyous day for the city and the finale to a fabulous bank holiday weekend.

‘I would like to pay tribute to the emergency services who responded to help those who were hurt and to our NHS staff treating them in hospital.

‘We are working closely with Merseyside Police to support their investigation, and with other relevant organisations to make sure those affected get the appropriate support.

‘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.

‘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 those affected. 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 be the case over the coming days and weeks.’

Dave Kitchin, head of North West Ambulance Service said 27 people were taken to hospital after tonight's horror incident.

He added that four of those injured were children and two people - including one child - are in a 'serious condition'.

A paramedic was also struck by the car but did not sustain major injuries.

A number of people have been injured and are being treated for injuries in hospital, police have confirmed.

They say it is not being treated as terror related.

MailOnline has been across tonight's collision on Water Street since it happened.

If you're just joining us now and need to catch up, you can read our full timeline on how a 'joyous' trophy parade became an unthinkable horror.

Read here...

We are still waiting to hear about the number of casualties as a result of tonight's collision on Water Street.

Emergency services said the number would confirmed in a press conference at 10.30pm but officials are yet to take their seats.

Members of the press are in the room and waiting to hear from:

• Jenny Sims, Assistant Chief Constable
• Dave Kitchin, head of North West Ambulance Service
• Chief Fire Officer, Nick Searle, of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service
• Liverpool City Council Leader Liam Robinson

We'll bring you the news as soon as we have it.

Liberal Democrats leader in Liverpool Carl Cashman said: 'I've just come in from the LFC parade from what was meant to be a really joyful day, to see the news of what's happened in town and I'm sad and shocked to say the least.

'I can't believe what I'm actually seeing on social media and first and foremost my heart goes out to everyone there that witnessed what happened, everyone there that was affected by what happened, and anyone who has been injured and their loved ones.'

Witness Frankie, 24, told the Mail: 'I was at the Manchester Arena incident. I don't want to go out again. The side of the car went into me and I fell to the floor. It's all a blur.

'I’ve got cuts and bruises and I’ll be fine but there's loads who have got more severe injuries.'

Patrick Milligan, 25, from Wigan added: 'We all had the best day of our lives watching the parade and then it was like a tsunami within about five minutes of the parade finishing. It was horrific.

'The car just swerved into the crowd at speed and everyone was screaming. We now know our families are ok but at the time, I had no idea if my brothers or sisters were under the car. My nan is 84 so we were all fearing the worst.’

NHS University Hospitals Liverpool Group urged members of the public to refrain from calling to ask about loved ones after the Liverpool victory parade incident because next of kin would be contacted.

In a statement the trust said: '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.'

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: 'I would like to thank our amazing emergency services for their heroic actions this evening in Liverpool.

'My heart goes out to everyone impacted in this horrible incident.

'My department is working with NHS England to keep across any developments for our NHS staff.'

Liverpool City Council leader Liam Robinson said tonight's collision has 'cast a very dark shadow over what had been a joyous day'.

He added: 'Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this appalling incident in the city centre.

'We are working closely with Merseyside Police to support their investigation, and with other relevant organisations to make sure those affected get the appropriate support.'

Fans in the city had gathered en masse earlier this afternoon to celebrate the club's 20th league title before disaster struck.

North West Ambulance Service has said the scene at Water Street has been cleared following tonight's horror collision.

They added that the number of casualties as a result of the incident will be confirmed in a press conference later this evening.

A spokesperson said: 'North West Ambulance Service has now cleared the scene following the incident in Liverpool and will be updating on casualty numbers at a press conference scheduled for later tonight.

'Details of this will be announced shortly.'

WARNING: THIS VIDEO MAY BE DISTRESSING FOR SOME VIEWERS

Former Liverpool FC defender Jamie Carragher wrote on X: 'Devastating end to the day... just pray everyone is ok'.

Ex-Reds striker Robbie Fowler added: 'Heartbreaking news... absolutely sickened with what's happened here in Liverpool.'

Manchester United said: 'Our thoughts are with @LFC and the city of Liverpool after today’s awful incident.'

Stay with us at MailOnline to keep up-to-date with tonight's horror incident on Walter Street in Liverpool.

Read our top story here...

If you're just joining us, here's a recap of what we know so far.

A 53-year-old white male has been arrested after a car ploughed into a crowd of Liverpool supporters during their Premier League trophy parade this evening.

Emergency services rushed to Water Street shortly after 6pm tonight and dramatic images quickly surfaced showing police cordons and a strong presence of officers, ambulances and a fire engine at the scene.

Thousands were out on the streets to celebrate when the car came 'beeping' through the crowds and collided with pedestrians.

Witnesses say they saw the car coming at speed before it crashed into the crowds of revellers.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer branded the scenes 'appalling'.

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said images from tonight's collision on Water Street are 'deeply worrying'.

She added: 'My thoughts are with all those affected, and the emergency services as they respond to what appears a horrific incident.'

Police restrained people who were 'smashing' the car that hit crowds in Water Street, a witness has said.

Daniel Jones, 28, told the Sun: 'A lot of people were evidently really angry. They were smashing [the car] up. Police were trying to restrain them.

'The back of the window was completely smashed. Everyone was just jumping onto that car, trying to jump on that car because officers were trying to restrain them.

'They were ripping the register plate off. The back window was broken when the [driver] was still in it.'

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram has said the city will 'stand together'.

He said in a statement: 'Our hearts go out to all of those affected, especially those who have been injured.

'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.'

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he was 'horrified to see the scenes in Liverpool' after what he called a 'disturbing attack'.

'My thoughts are with all of those affected and injured by this disturbing attack,' he added.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey also said he was 'shocked' by the scenes.

'I want to thank the emergency services who have responded so quickly,' he said.

'My thoughts are with all those who have been injured or affected.'

Witness Natasha Rinaldi, who was watching the parade from her friend's living room, told Sky News: 'It was so loud. People sounded desperate.

'And then we looked out the window and we saw the car (had) run over people.

'Then people started rushing to go after the driver and they tried to break the car. The police did everything to block and to push people away.

'We could just hear screams and screams. We were very confused.

'Some of my friends were down there and the car was so near them. It was a horrible scene, nobody was expecting it."

She said 'people had stopped the car' and were knocking on the window 'and trying to speak to the driver'.

'People were very angry and shocked, and then the police intervened. And then we heard the ambulances coming.'

Merseyside Police are leading the investigation into the incident at Liverpool

FC's trophy parade but officers from Counter Terrorism Policing North West are

supporting them, the PA news agency has said.

Liverpool FC's local rivals Everton and the Premier League have posted a show of support after tonight's horror collision.

In a social media post, Everton said: 'Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by this serious incident in our city.'

The Premier League added: 'Everyone at the Premier League is shocked by the appalling events in Liverpool this evening, and our heartfelt thoughts go out to all those injured and affected.

'We have been in contact with Liverpool FC and have offered our full support following this serious incident.'

A restaurant on the street where the car ploughed into a crowd of Liverpool supporters has reportedly been turned into a makeshift ER.

Crime reporter Paddy Edrich from the Liverpool Echo said in a post shared to X: 'I’m on Dale Street where it meets Water Street, where police are dealing with a serious incident in the wake of the Liverpool title parade.

'A number of people are receiving medical treatment inside restaurant Riva, which has been turned into a makeshift ER.'

Chelsea Yuen was at the parade with her friend and young daughter and told Sky News she is 'shaken' as she fought back tears.

She said: 'We're really shaken up. My friend's daughter was crying as we got closer to people lying on the floor at the top of the street. We just had to keep walking and get out of the area. We didn't know what else was coming.

'There were prams in the streets. I don't know who has been hurt or if there are any fatalities. But there were kids everywhere. It was a family celebration, it's just quite shocking what's happened.'

Liverpool FC has published its first statement after the collision saying they are in contact with police.

It reads: 'We are in direct contact with Merseyside Police regarding the incident on Water Street which happened towards the end of the trophy parade earlier this evening.

'Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by this serious incident.

'We will continue to offer our full support to the emergency services and local authorities who are dealing with this incident.'

The club had put on an open-top bus trophy parade this afternoon which was widely celebrated in the city before the collision.

There were screams ahead of us and suddenly this dark blue car just came through the crowd, it just wasn't stopping.

I managed to grab my daughter who was with me and jump out out of the way, it missed myself, my family, by literally inches. We then turned and watched what happened behind us momentarily before running. At that point you could see the ambulance I mentioned which had stopped - that I think provided something of a natural barrier, that slowed the car down.

As it passed me it was being chased by a group of men who were trying to bang on the side of it and throw things at it. The back of the rear windshield had been completely smashed it but it had no intention of stopping.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer this evening posted to X: 'The scenes in Liverpool are appalling — my thoughts are with all those injured or affected.

I want to thank the police and emergency services for their swift and ongoing response to this shocking incident.

I’m being kept updated on developments and ask that we give the police the space they need to investigate.'

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is also being kept updated about the events in Liverpool.

Merseyside Police have issued a statement urging people not to speculate on tonight's incident.

A spokesperson for the force said: '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.

'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. 'Information can also be passed on anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.'

A man has been arrested after a car ploughed into a crowd of Liverpool supporters during their Premier League trophy parade this evening.

The shocking incident unfolded just after 6pm on Water Street in the heart of Liverpool's city centre, as thousands of fans packed the streets to celebrate their team's triumphant season.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the scenes were 'appaling' and that he is being 'kept updated on developments'.

This is a developing story. Stick with us and we'll keep you up to date.

Harry Rashid, 48, from Solihull, was at the parade with his wife and two young daughters when he witnessed the collision.

He said: 'It happened about 10 feet away from us. We were just in a crowd and we had no control over where we would be, because it was a very narrow street.

'The vehicle came to our right. It emerged from just right next to an ambulance, which was parked up. This grey people carrier just pulled up from the right and just rammed into all the people at the side of us.

'It was travelling south, down Water Street, straight towards this strand, which is where the docks are.

'It was extremely fast. Initially, we just heard the pop, pop, pop of people just being knocked off the bonnet of a car.

Mr Rashid described how crowds began trying to smash the car windows: 'Then he stalled for a few seconds, probably about 10 seconds. Then the crowd that was a bit further back started rushing at him trying to smash his windows.

'But then he put his foot down again and just ploughed through the rest of them, he just kept going.

'It was horrible. And you could hear the bumps as he was going over the people.

'Then my daughter started screaming and there were people on the ground.

'It looked clearly deliberate.

'They were just innocent people, just fans going to enjoy the parade. There were hundreds and thousands of us there because this is probably the busiest part of Liverpool."

'We were shocked, couldn't believe it.'

Emergency services arrived at the scene 'within seconds', he said.

Mr Rashid said: 'Ambulances were already there. There was one right next to where this occurred, so there was a paramedic inside there.

'But then they started arriving within seconds, they're all trying to get to the crowd and negotiate the crowd, which is very difficult to do, you see, because there's that many people, they constantly been trying to move.

'I just wanted my kids to get off the road regardless because I couldn't trust whether there's a follow up attack or something like that. Because you are just exposed there on the pavement.

'I saw people lying on the ground, people unconscious.

'It was horrendous. So horrendous.'