British police have been granted additional time to question a 53-year-old man arrested after a vehicle plowed into a crowd of Liverpool football fans during a celebratory parade in the city centre earlier this week. The incident left dozens injured, with seven people still hospitalized as of Wednesday.
The crash occurred on Monday during celebrations for Liverpool FC’s Premier League title win. Crowds had gathered along Dale Street in central Liverpool when a car drove into the gathering, causing panic and injuries. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, and the driver was arrested shortly after the incident.
In a statement on Wednesday, Merseyside Police confirmed that they had received approval to continue holding the suspect for further questioning. “The investigation team have today been granted further time to continue questioning him in police custody, which will remain in place until tomorrow,” the force said.
Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive for the incident, and investigations are ongoing. The suspect has not been formally charged, and police have remained tight-lipped about further details, citing the active nature of the inquiry.
Seven individuals who were hospitalized following the crash remain in stable condition, according to police. Others who sustained minor injuries were treated at the scene or later released from medical care.
The incident cast a shadow over what was meant to be a day of celebration for Liverpool supporters, who had gathered in large numbers to cheer their team’s historic Premier League triumph. Photos from the aftermath showed police cordoning off parts of Dale Street, while forensic teams worked to collect evidence.
Local authorities have urged anyone who witnessed the event or has video footage to come forward to assist with the investigation.
Liverpool Mayor Joanne Anderson condemned the incident and expressed her support for those injured. “What should have been a joyful day for the city was marred by a terrible act. Our thoughts are with the injured and their families,” she said.
Police presence in the city centre remains heightened as the investigation continues.
