Liverpool (KAAB TV) – In a high-profile court appearance at Liverpool Crown Court, Paul Doyle, a 53-year-old man from West Derby, Liverpool, emphatically pleaded not guilty to a sweeping 31 criminal charges in connection with a disturbing incident that marred Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade in May.
The Incident
On 26 May 2025, around 6 p.m. BST, a grey Ford Galaxy allegedly driven by Doyle drove into dense crowds of jubilant fans on Water Street, near the end of the parade route. The vehicle followed an ambulance into the restricted zone after a brief roadblock removal to allow medical access. Over 130 people were injured in the melee, with estimates placing the number of hospital admissions at over 50 and involving victims ranging from infants to seniors.
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos as emergency services rushed to assist. Some victims were trapped beneath the vehicle, requiring urgent rescue. Authorities swiftly ruled out terrorism as a motive, characterizing the event as isolated.
The Charges
Doyle now faces 31 charges, including:
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18 counts of attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent
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9 counts of causing GBH with intent
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2 counts of wounding with intent
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1 count of dangerous driving
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1 count of affray
Initially arrested and charged with seven offences—including dangerous driving and various counts of GBH and wounding—authorities added 24 new counts in August. Some specifically pertain to child victims, including babies aged six and seven months.
Court Proceedings and Defence Concerns
Doyle appeared via videolink from HMP Belmarsh, entering pleas of not guilty to all counts. His trial has been provisionally scheduled for late November, with dates varying between 24 and 25 November depending on reporting source.
At the hearing, his defense revealed logistical challenges: Doyle has reportedly faced significant obstacles in accessing video evidence and documents. His legal team criticized Belmarsh Prison for failing to provide the necessary technological facilities, describing the situation as restricted and “incomprehensible”.
He remains in custody, with a pre-trial hearing also scheduled for 27 October or 4 September, depending on the source.
Broader Reaction and Context
The incident shook a festive occasion held in front of an estimated one million people, celebrating Liverpool’s first citywide victory parade since the 2020 pandemic cancellation.
Senior political figures and royalty responded with messages of support. King Charles III highlighted the city’s spirit as a comfort, while Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer commended emergency responders and offered solidarity with affected communities.
Liverpool FC also expressed condolences and pledged support to victims and their families, maintaining contact with Merseyside Police.
Pre-trial hearing: scheduled for 27 October (Guardian/Sky) or earlier depending on court scheduling.
Trial: expected to begin around 24–25 November, potentially lasting 3–4 weeks
Defense challenge: ensuring accurate access to digital evidence remains a key concern ahead of trial.