LIVERPOOL – The football community stood in solidarity on May 27 after a car drove into a large crowd celebrating Liverpool’s Premier League title win, injuring 27 people, including four children.
The shocking incident occurred on May 26 in Liverpool, as hundreds of thousands gathered in rainy weather to celebrate the team’s championship parade. The chaos unfolded when a dark-coloured vehicle swerved through the crowd, just moments after the team’s open-top bus passed by. One child sustained serious injuries.
Police have ruled out terrorism and arrested a 53-year-old white British man believed to be the driver.
What began as a day of celebration quickly turned into tragedy. Liverpool FC expressed its condolences on social media, stating: “Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by this serious incident.”
Team captain Virgil van Dijk posted: “Praying for a speedy recovery for everyone who suffered injuries. We are all with you.”
Club legend Kenny Dalglish, deeply moved, said: “Shocked, horrified and deeply saddened. Our anthem has never felt more appropriate — You’ll Never Walk Alone. Your Liverpool family are behind you.”
Former manager Jürgen Klopp, who led Liverpool to its 2020 title, added: “My family and I are shocked and devastated. Our thoughts are with all those injured and affected.”
Former captain Steven Gerrard shared a red heart and wrote: “Shocked, sickened and saddened… My thoughts and prayers go out to all the people involved and families. YNWA.”
Liverpool supporters’ group Spirit of Shankly also paid tribute: “We are proud of how our city responded… countless individuals stepped up immediately, offering support, shelter, food, and transport to those stranded.”
Even bitter rivals showed support. Everton tweeted: “Our thoughts are with all those affected.” Manchester United echoed the sentiment, while Manchester City said: “The thoughts of everyone at Manchester City are with those injured or affected.”
Former defender Jamie Carragher called it a “devastating end to the day” and hoped for everyone’s safety.
LeBron James, a minority stakeholder in Liverpool, posted: “My deepest thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected… Such a senseless act.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated: “Football stands together with Liverpool FC and all fans of the club following the horrific incident.”
Social media footage captured the moment the car was stopped by furious fans, who smashed its rear windows. Police intervened to restore order. Four people, including a child, were reportedly trapped under the vehicle.
The Premier League also responded, calling the events “appalling” and offering full support to the club and those impacted.
As the investigation continues, the football world remains united in support of the victims and the city of Liverpool.
