Merseyside Police have been granted additional time to interrogate a 53-year-old man from West Derby, arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, after a car plowed into crowds during Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade on Monday.
The horrifying incident left 79 people injured, with seven still in the hospital, as the city grapples with the aftermath of what was meant to be a day of pure jubilation.
The suspect, who was also arrested for dangerous driving and driving under the influence of drugs, allegedly drove a Ford Galaxy through a police roadblock meant for emergency access just after 6:00 PM BST.
The vehicle struck dozens of fans gathered in the city center’s Water Street, leaving scenes of devastation in its wake.
“It was hard because I didn’t know where anyone was or what to do,” said Daniel Eveson, a survivor from Telford whose partner was dragged under the car.
“Under the sea of chaos, it changed to the worst day of my life.”
Mr. Eveson’s baby son, who was thrown from his pram, miraculously escaped injury.
In the chaos that followed, false accusations circulated on social media, wrongly identifying 54-year-old Peter Cunningham as the suspect. The police have firmly stated that the only person in custody is the unnamed 53-year-old from West Derby and urged the public not to speculate.
“I’m in work – the police need to give the name out because I’m getting accused,” Mr. Cunningham told the BBC.
Prime Minister Visits as Investigation Intensifies
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer visited Merseyside Police Headquarters on Wednesday, meeting with local and police leaders to get firsthand updates.
“The scenes on Monday were just awful,” he said.
“To see how incredible joy at an amazing achievement turned to horror in a moment – it’s really important for me to understand the details.”
According to Detective Superintendent Rachel Wilson, detectives are making “significant progress” in piecing together the events. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage across Liverpool to track the car’s movements before the crash.
“We continue to support those still receiving treatment,” she said.
“We’re also identifying more victims as inquiries continue.”
Police confirmed that Water Street has reopened, but reminders of the tragedy remain — with red roses and sympathy cards left at the scene.
Authorities have confirmed that the suspect remains in custody and is not being treated as a terror suspect. Under UK law, police can detain a suspect up to 96 hours (or 14 days if terrorism-related) before they must be charged or released.
The court has now extended police custody until Thursday to allow further questioning.
The attack has cast a shadow over what should have been a moment of triumph for Liverpool FC and its fans.
