GENEVA/LONDON: A man was arrested after a car ploughed into a group of Liverpool fans celebrating the club’s Premier League title in the city centre on Monday evening, British police said.
Merseyside Police said they were alerted shortly after 6:00 pm local time (1700 GMT) following reports that a vehicle had collided with several pedestrians on Water Street, where crowds had gathered in celebration, Anadolu Ajansi (AA) reported.
“The car stopped at the scene and a male has been detained. Emergency services are currently on the scene,” the police said in a statement.
In a later update, authorities confirmed the suspect as a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area.
Police urged the public not to speculate on the motive or circumstances, adding that “extensive enquiries” were ongoing.
Videos shared on social media showed chaotic scenes as fans were reportedly dragged by the vehicle before it came to a stop.
Screams and panic ensued as emergency crews responded.
The North West Ambulance Service said it was working closely with other emergency services and assessing the situation.
“Our priority is to ensure that anyone in need receives medical assistance as quickly as possible,” the service said.
British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, described the incident as “appalling” and extended his thoughts to those affected.
“I want to thank the police and emergency services for their swift and ongoing response to this shocking incident,” he posted on X, formerly Twitter.
“I’m being kept updated on developments and ask that we give the police the space they need to investigate,” he added. – BERNAMA-ANADOLU
