Liverpool parade collision: What we know so far

Police are not treating an incident in which a car ploughed through crowds of people near Liverpool FC’s trophy parade as terrorism; however, there’s a lot of reasons why it should be.

Thousands of fans were lining the streets to celebrate the club winning the Premier League title at the time.

At least 27 people, including four children, were taken to hospital on Monday evening but no deaths have been reported so far.

Following a news conference by the emergency services on Monday night, here’s what we know so far.

Follow live: Man arrested after pedestrians hit during Liverpool parade

What happened?

The incident occurred on Water Street in the city centre – near Liverpool Town Hall and the Liver Building – when a car drove through a crowd of pedestrians.

A 53-year-old white British man, who is believed to be the driver, was arrested at the scene.

Footage filmed from a nearby building showed the incident unfold

What are the emergency services saying?

At a news conference, assistant chief constable of Merseyside Police, Jenny Sims, said the force received reports at 6pm that a car had hit a number of pedestrians.

“A number of people have been injured and were taken to hospital. In addition, a large number of people of all ages were treated at the scene that did not require hospital treatment.”

She described the collision, which unfolded as the parade was winding down, as a “terrible tragedy” – with detectives immediately declaring a major incident.

Giving updates on the injured, Dave Kitchin, head of service at the North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust, said 27 people were taken to hospital by ambulance.

Two of those, including one child, sustained serious injuries.

Mr Kitchin added that 20 patients were treated at the scene for minor injuries and did not need hospital treatment.

What has the response been so far?

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer confirmed he had spoken to Liverpool’s Mayor Steve Rotheram – and praised the “remarkable bravery shown by the police and other emergency services”.

He 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.”

Liverpool Football Club said it was in contact with Merseyside Police and would “continue to offer our full support to the emergency services and local authorities who are dealing with this incident”.

Anfield’s rivals Everton FC said in a statement: “Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by this serious incident in our city.”

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper thanked police and called the incident “truly shocking and horrendous”.

“Thinking of all those affected at this very difficult time. The police are investigating and I’m being kept updated on developments.”