Dad of three identified and charged after parade rampage

A 53-year-old man has been charged with seven offences following a shocking incident in which a car rammed into crowds celebrating Liverpool Football Club’s Premier League title earlier this week.

Paul Doyle, a businessman and former Royal Marine, was named by police on Thursday as the driver of a Ford Galaxy that struck dozens of people gathered in central Liverpool on Monday evening. Merseyside Police confirmed Doyle faces charges including dangerous driving and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Authorities reported that 79 people, aged between nine and 78, were injured in the incident. While no fatalities were reported, seven people remained in hospital as of Thursday.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said the decision to charge Doyle followed a “complex and ongoing investigation” involving numerous witness statements and video evidence. “It is important to ensure every victim gets the justice they deserve,” said Sarah Hammond of the CPS.

Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims said Doyle has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear before Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

Footage from the chaotic scene showed the car ploughing through crowds, with several people seen bouncing off the bonnet. Four individuals, including a child, were trapped beneath the vehicle and had to be rescued by emergency crews.

The shocking turn of events occurred as hundreds of thousands of Liverpool supporters filled the streets to mark their club's record-equalling 20th English top-flight title. What began as a jubilant evening of celebration quickly descended into panic and horror.

In the aftermath, police were quick to dismiss any links to terrorism, and in an unusual step, confirmed that the suspect was a white British man in order to counter online misinformation.

UK media identified Doyle as a resident of a quiet Liverpool suburb, where he lived with his wife – a schoolteacher – and their three teenage children. According to neighbours, Doyle's wife only discovered his involvement after seeing images of their car on the news.

Police have maintained a presence outside the family’s four-bedroom home since Monday.

Doyle was initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and driving under the influence of drugs, although these charges were not formally included. Prosecutors noted that all charges remain under review as the investigation continues.

“This investigation is far from over,” Hammond said. “We are committed to uncovering the full circumstances of what happened.”

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