A former Royal Marine broke down in tears at Liverpool Crown Court after pleading guilty to driving his Ford Galaxy into crowds celebrating Liverpool FC’s Premier League win. Paul Doyle, 54, from Croxteth, dramatically admitted guilt on all 31 charges—bringing a shocking trial to a sudden halt.
Horrific Chaos at Victory Parade Leaves 134 Injured
The terrifying incident happened on May 26, 2025, when Doyle sped into jubilant fans on Water Street as they dispersed post-parade. Victims ranged from a six-month-old baby to a 77-year-old pensioner. Nearly 30 people needed hospital treatment for fractured bones, deep cuts, and crush injuries.
Doyle followed an ambulance through a lifted roadblock before accelerating into the crowd. Among the injured was six-month-old Teddy Eveson, thrown 15 feet from his pram. The scene descended into chaos with screams and pandemonium as families scrambled to safety.
Emotional Court Scene as Doyle Admits All Charges
During Tuesday’s hearing, Doyle’s voice cracked as he pleaded guilty to:
- Dangerous driving
- Affray
- 17 counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent
- 9 counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent
- 3 counts of wounding with intent
The former marine sobbed openly, wiping tears and keeping his head bowed. Just months earlier, he had insisted he was innocent. But with overwhelming evidence—including CCTV, dashcam, and mobile footage—prosecutors say he “had no choice but to plead guilty.”
Judge Prepares Doyle for Long Jail Term
Judge Andrew Menary KC warned Doyle a lengthy custodial sentence was “inevitable.” The 54-year-old was immediately remanded to HMP Liverpool, where he has been held since his arrest.
The jury, sworn in just a day before the pleas, was discharged. Sentencing is set for December 15 and 16, when victim impact statements will reveal the full horror.
Shockwaves Through Liverpool Community
The city has been left reeling. What should have been a day of joy turned into a nightmare for hundreds. Crown Prosecution Chief Sarah Hammond said, “This brings a measure of justice for an act that caused unimaginable harm during a day of celebration.”
More than 130 people were injured. Medical teams worked overnight treating trauma victims. No lives were lost, but the scars—both physical and emotional—will linger for years, especially for the children caught up in the nightmare.
As the December sentencing looms, Liverpool braces for closure in a case that stained its football victory with heartbreak and horror.
