Ex-Royal Marine accused of deliberately mowing down fans
Paul Doyle, the man accused of driving a car into a crowd of Liverpool supporters during the club’s title parade, has been told in court he could face even more serious charges.
The 53-year-old, from West Derby, Liverpool, appeared at the city’s magistrates’ court following a horrifying incident on Bank Holiday Monday which left 79 people injured.
Doyle, a father-of-three and former Royal Marine, is already facing seven offences including wounding with intent, causing grievous bodily harm, attempted GBH and dangerous driving. Among the victims are two children aged just 11 and 17.
Visibly shaken as he faces court
Wearing a black suit and grey tie, Doyle appeared emotional as he was escorted into the dock. He kept his head bowed throughout the hearing, only glancing up at the packed courtroom as the charges were read out.
The case was immediately sent to Liverpool Crown Court, with Judge Andrew Menary KC fast-tracking the matter due to its severity. He told the courtroom there is a “real prospect” of further charges being brought as detectives continue their investigation.
Packed streets turn to chaos
The shocking incident took place just after 6pm as hundreds of thousands of Liverpool fans lined the streets to celebrate the club’s 20th league title.
Doyle is accused of using his Ford Galaxy as a weapon, tailgating an ambulance through a closed-off road before ploughing into families gathered near Water Street.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as fans screamed and scattered. A baby boy was flung metres down the road in his pram, though miraculously escaped without serious injury.
Police warn of developing investigation
Prosecutor Philip Astbury confirmed the CPS is still gathering evidence and reviewing CCTV, with many more witnesses to interview.
Judge Menary imposed reporting restrictions to protect the identities of the six named victims so far, and said the “public interest” in the case was entirely justified given the scale of the incident.
Doyle did not enter a plea and made no application for bail. He was remanded in custody and will appear again on 14 August. A full trial is expected to begin in late November.
Community response and support
A fundraising campaign set up for the victims has raised over £30,000, including £10,000 from Jamie Carragher’s charity.
Seven people remain in hospital, with victims ranging in age from nine to 78. Police are continuing to appeal for footage and eyewitness accounts from anyone who witnessed the crash.
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