A celebration featuring Liverpool’s Premier League stars, including Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, ended in chaos and heartbreak Monday. Jubilant fans suddenly found themselves in a scene of horror as a car veered into the tightly packed crowd, with dozens of people left hurt and the city shaken.

According to the Daily Mail, a 53-year-old man was swiftly detained on suspicion of attempted murder and drug driving after the incident on Water Street in Liverpool’s city center. Emergency crews responded within minutes as the parade route—meant for celebration—turned into a triage zone.

The parade, which began at Allerton Maze and was meant to mark Liverpool’s historic 20th league title, was brought to an abrupt and tragic halt. Officials confirmed 65 people were injured, including children, as the car struck the crowd, sparking panic, anger, and rapid police intervention.

Chaos erupts on Water Street

Eyewitnesses described terrifying scenes as the car, identified as a dark-colored people carrier, appeared near an ambulance before accelerating into the throng of supporters. Many fans had little space to move, packed like “sardines” along the narrow street when the vehicle mounted the curb and struck men, women, and even a baby.

Some witnesses said the car was beeping as it moved, but the warning came too late for many. As the car came to a stop, angry fans rushed it, some attempting to lift the vehicle to help those trapped underneath, while others shouted and threw bottles, according to multiple reports.

Police quickly intervened, dragging the driver from the car before tempers could flare further. Within moments, the area was cordoned off, and emergency services, including ambulances and fire engines, filled the street. Restaurants nearby opened their doors to treat the injured, with paramedics administering first aid inside local businesses.

Parade-goers recall horror and near misses

Several fans shared harrowing accounts of their close encounters with the out-of-control car. Harry Rashid, who attended the parade with his family, 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.” He recalled hearing the “pop, pop, pop of people just being knocked off the bonnet of a car.”

Chelsea Yuen, another parade attendee, told Sky News she and her friend managed to jump out of the way just in time and pulled a small child to safety. “We were literally like sardines walking up the street, and then we heard beeping and screaming and when we looked up, there was a black, people carrier, driving straight towards us,” Yuen recounted.

Others were not so lucky. One victim, identified as Frankie, 24, said, “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.” Another witness claimed up to 30 people may have been struck, crediting luck and quick thinking for escaping harm.

Political leaders and Liverpool FC respond

Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper were kept fully briefed as the situation unfolded. Starmer condemned the “appalling” scenes, thanked first responders, and urged the public to allow police the space to conduct their investigation.

Liverpool FC issued a statement expressing support for victims and gratitude to emergency services. “Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by this serious incident,” the club said, highlighting ongoing cooperation with authorities.

Liverpool Mayor Steve Rotheram also spoke out, saying, “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.” The city council and North West Ambulance Service both confirmed their involvement in the response and investigation.

Investigators seek answers after tragedy

Merseyside Police confirmed they were called just after 6 p.m. Monday following reports of a car colliding with pedestrians on Water Street. The arrested driver described as a white British man from the Liverpool area remains in custody as officers from Counter Terrorism Policing North West assist with the ongoing investigation.

Authorities erected a large blue tent at the scene to preserve evidence, and police have asked the public for patience as the investigation continues. Images shared on social media and reports from local journalists showed the aftermath—broken glass, police tape, and shocked fans comforting one another.

The devastating incident came just days after the anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster, a painful reminder for many in Liverpool of the city’s history of tragedy at football events. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher posted, “Devastating end to the day… just pray everyone is ok,” capturing the mood of many in the community.