Driver crashes minivan into Liverpool parade, injuring dozens

Chaos erupted in Liverpool city center Monday evening as a minivan collided with a crowd of soccer fans celebrating their team's Premier League championship victory.

At least 27 people were hospitalized as the vehicle plowed through fans, a tragic scene that authorities are confident was not linked to terrorism.

The incident unfolded on Water Street shortly after 6 p.m. when the celebration turned chaotic as the driver, a 53-year-old local man, careened into the crowd. The crowd was filled with not only adults but also children, four of whom were involved in the collision.

Emergency response and prompt action

Emergency services quickly responded to the distressing event. Among those affected were three adults and a child who found themselves trapped underneath the minivan and had to be freed by firefighters who lifted the vehicle.

According to eyewitnesses like Harry Rashid, the collision happened abruptly. "It was extremely fast," Rashid recounted, describing the grim moment when he heard people hit by the van.

Medical teams worked swiftly to treat 27 individuals who were taken to hospitals, including two with serious injuries. An additional 20 people received attention at the scene for less severe injuries. One paramedic on a bicycle was struck but remained unharmed.

Accounts from eyewitnesses

Video footage shared on social media displayed the minivan's desperate attempts to halt after creating havoc in the crowd. Police have detained the driver, who acted alone, as their inquiries continue to determine the collision's cause.

Rashid continued his account, noting that the driver appeared to speed up again and continued his rampage through the crowd. "But then he put his foot down again and just plowed through the rest of them," he added, echoing the harrowing experience.

Local authorities urged the community not to speculate about the circumstances or disseminate unsettling media from the incident, instead encouraging the public to help the authorities with any relevant information.

Official reactions and ongoing investigation

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed deep concern over the incident, conveying sympathies for those impacted and gratitude toward the emergency workers who acted quickly.

"The scenes in Liverpool are appalling," Starmer said, adding that his thoughts were with those suffering from this unexpected chaos.

The local police stated that they are undertaking "extensive inquiries" to investigate what led to this shocking event.

Call for public cooperation

While the authorities have emphasized that terrorism is not currently being considered a motive, they stressed the continuing nature of their investigation. "Extensive inquiries are ongoing," police confirmed, as they seek to uncover more details about the incident.

Public cooperation is being requested as officials work to unravel the complexities of this isolated case. Residents are urged to come forward with any information that could aid in elucidating the driver's actions.

Liverpool residents remain shaken, but steadfast in their determination to move beyond this distressing episode while offering support to the affected and ensuring similar incidents are prevented in the future.

Resilience amid adversity

Harry Rashid, reflecting on the alarming evening, described his daughter’s response vividly. "My daughter started screaming, and there were people on the ground," he narrated, highlighting the innocence of those caught up in the incident.

The community's resiliency remains evident as calls for unity and healing grow louder, offering solace to those injured and ensuring solidarity in the aftermath.

As Liverpool moves forward, the focus will remain on healing the victims and committing to the safety of its residents and the vibrant celebrations that define the city's spirit.