A man accused of ramming a car into crowds at Liverpool’s Premier League title parade has appeared in court, charged with a string of violent offences.
Paul Doyle, 53, from West Derby, Liverpool, is accused of using his vehicle “as a weapon” when he allegedly drove a Ford Galaxy into celebrating fans near the waterfront on Monday. The shocking incident left 79 people injured, including four children. The youngest casualty is believed to be just nine years old, with the oldest aged 78.
Faces Serious Charges Over Crowd Collision
Doyle appeared tearful in the dock at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on Thursday morning. Dressed in a black suit and grey tie, he was flanked by two female custody officers as he entered the packed courtroom. Witnesses described him looking dishevelled, often bowing his head and keeping his eyes on the floor as details of the charges were read out.
He faces seven charges in total: two counts of wounding with intent, two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent, two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent — including one involving a child — and a further charge of dangerous driving. Prosecutors allege that Doyle deliberately drove at the crowd, weaponising his car in the moments after Liverpool’s title celebrations came to a close.
Judge Calls Case ‘Exceptional’ as Identities Protected
District Judge Paul Healey described the case as “exceptional” and said it had “shocked and outraged” the people of Liverpool and beyond. The judge also granted the prosecution’s request for reporting restrictions to protect the identities of six complainants involved.
Doyle gave his name, address and date of birth in a quiet voice, reportedly trembling during the proceedings. At one point, he glanced toward the press gallery and appeared to struggle to hold back tears.
He was remanded in custody ahead of a further hearing scheduled later today at Liverpool Crown Court.
Suspect Identified After Days of Investigation
The suspect was formally named by police on Thursday, following several days of intense investigation. Officers had initially been granted more time to question him. Since then, a police presence has been maintained outside Doyle’s home, where he lives with his wife and three sons. Social media pictures reportedly show the family on holidays in Florida, Dubai, and at UK beaches.
Police say the Galaxy managed to breach a roadblock by tailgating an ambulance attending a medical emergency before entering the closed-off zone. The vehicle was then seen mounting the pavement and crashing through crowds before coming to a stop.
Seven victims remain in hospital in stable condition. Merseyside Police say the final number of injured could still rise as more victims come forward.
Former Royal Marine Now Under Scrutiny
Doyle is believed to be a former Royal Marine Commando with a background in IT, according to a now-locked LinkedIn page. Companies House lists several dissolved retail businesses under his name, though it remains unclear what work he currently undertakes.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims said: “Our thoughts remain with all those injured and affected by this appalling incident. Detectives continue to work with diligence and professionalism to uncover the full facts.”
The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed the charges against Doyle will remain under review as the investigation continues.
