POLICE have been given more time to quiz a man arrested after 79 people were injured when a car ploughed into crowds in Liverpool.
Footage shows the moment a man was hauled out of the car after it hit crowds of people celebrating Liverpool’s Premier League title win on Monday.
A 53-year-old white British man from West Derby, Liverpool, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, driving while unfit due to drugs, and dangerous driving offences.
Cops have now been given “further time to continue questioning him”, Merseyside Police confirmed today.
At least 79 people were injured, including four children, and investigators are reviewing CCTV footage to reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the incident.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer visited the city today and was welcomed by Deputy Chief Constable Chris Green, Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims, and the Mayor of Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram.
They were pictured at Merseyside Police Headquarters, where the four held a meeting.
In a statement, the force said: “We can confirm that seven people remain in hospital in a stable condition following the incident on Water Street on Monday May 26.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, we have also been able to identify more people who were injured, with 79 in total who we are now speaking with.
“A 53-year-old man from West Derby, who was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving offences and driving while unfit through drugs, remains in police custody.
“The investigation team have today been granted further time to continue questioning him in police custody, which will remain in place until tomorrow.”
Footage shows the moment two cops dragged the driver out of his car after it finally came to a stop in the middle of the parade.
Heroic fans could be seen hitting the car as they tried to slow it down after scores were left injured.
Horrifying footage also shows a number of people left laying on the floor around the car as emergency crews desperately tried to help the injured.
Many fans also took matters into their own hands, helping to save those hurt by the car, clearing out space for paramedics and police to arrest the driver.
Merseyside Police confirmed reports yesterday that the car followed an ambulance into the parade after a road block was temporarily lifted so paramedics could help a man who suffered a suspected heart attack.
Cops confirmed the incident is not being treated as terrorism.
Footage taken from a shop showed the car edging through the crowds of supporters just two minutes before it accelerated down the street.
It was filmed slowly driving down Dale Street through groups of unaware fans – including children – before it turned onto Water Street.
The horrific scenes took place shortly after 6pm on Monday in the heart of the Merseyside city.
Detective Chief Superintendent Karen Jaundrill explained police were making “significant progress” in their investigations.
She said: “My thoughts are with all those injured in this awful incident, their families and friends, and everyone who has been affected.
“Like us, many of you will still be coming to terms with what was a harrowing end to a day of celebration.
“I want to reassure the public of Merseyside that detectives are making significant progress as we seek to establish the full circumstances that led to this awful incident and bring the person responsible to justice.”
Leaders across the UK have shared their shock over the horrific scenes, with the King saying he was “deeply saddened” by the crash.
He added: “I know that the strength of community spirit for which your city is renowned will be a comfort and support to those in need.”
The Prince and Princess of Wales also said they were “deeply saddened” by the scenes on Monday.
William, who is patron of the Football Association, and his wife Kate said in a personal message on social media: “What should have been a joyful celebration ended with tragedy.
“Our thoughts are with those who were injured and to the first responders and emergency services on the ground. W & C.”
Liverpool heroes Kenny Dalglish and Jurgen Klopp also led tributes yesterday to those caught in the parade day carnage.
In a message of support to fans Anfield ace Sir Kenny, who won titles as a player and manager, said the club anthem, You’ll Never Walk Alone, “has never felt more appropriate”.
In a statement he said: “Shocked, horrified and deeply saddened about what happened at the end of the parade. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone and their families who have been impacted.
“Our anthem has never felt more appropriate, You’ll Never Walk Alone. Your Liverpool family are behind you.”
Ex-manager Klopp, who won the title in 2020, flew from Germany for Monday’s parade.
He said on social media: “My family and I are shocked and devastated. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those injured and affected. You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Liverpool-born defender Trent Alexander-Arnold said online: “My thoughts are with the whole city, especially all affected by yesterday’s devastating events.
“Hopefully those who were injured will make a full recovery and the city will pull together as it always does.”
