Paul Doyle admits guilt to 31 charges linked to Liverpool parade

Paul Doyle, a 54-year-old resident of Croxteth, Liverpool, has pleaded guilty to all 31 charges stemming from a catastrophic incident during the Liverpool FC victory parade on May 26. His guilty plea was made at Liverpool Crown Court, where he displayed visible distress while acknowledging his dangerous actions that led to numerous injuries.

Details of the Incident

On the afternoon of May 26, thousands of Liverpool supporters gathered to celebrate their team’s victory. The parade started at 14:30 BST and was nearing its conclusion as spectators began to head home. The incident occurred on Water Street just after 18:00.

Doyle drove his Ford Galaxy Titanium into a dense crowd, injuring more than 130 individuals, including people aged from six months to 77 years. His actions resulted in serious injuries ranging from affray to grievous bodily harm. The prosecution characterized this as “an act of calculated violence.”

Court Proceedings

During the trial’s second day, Doyle changed his pleas as the prosecution was preparing to present its case. He faced 31 charges, including:

• Dangerous driving
• Affray
• 17 counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent
• 9 counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent
• 3 counts of wounding with intent

Andrew Menary KC, the Recorder of Liverpool, indicated that Doyle will likely face a significant custodial sentence. A two-day sentencing hearing is set for December 15 and 16.

Impact of the Incident

The reckless driving incident turned a day of celebration into chaos and distress for many. The police noted that Doyle’s actions could have easily resulted in fatalities, with Detective Chief Inspector John Fitzgerald stating, “it was only by sheer luck that nobody was killed.”

Public Response and Next Steps

Following the incident, the Liverpool City Council announced an independent review to examine the factors leading to the tragedy. The report is expected to be released soon to provide clarity on the procedures in place during such public events.

Chief Crown Prosecutor Sarah Hammond remarked that Doyle had finally accepted responsibility for his deliberate actions, which transformed a celebratory atmosphere into a scene of injuries and fear. “This was not a momentary lapse by Paul Doyle — it was a choice he made that day,” she emphasized.

As the community continues to process the aftermath of this incident, the focus will be on healing and understanding the events that led to such turmoil.