A former Royal Marine commando, Paul Doyle, appeared visibly emotional in court as he faced seven serious charges after using his car to plough into a crowd during Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade.
Doyle, 53, stood in the glass-panelled dock at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court, where he was charged with one count of dangerous driving, two counts each of causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, wounding with intent, and attempting to cause GBH with intent. The incident involved six alleged victims, including two children aged 11 and 17. He did not enter a plea.
According to the prosecution, Doyle “deliberately used his vehicle as a weapon” when he drove into fans on Water Street around 6 p.m., shortly after the team’s parade concluded. Prosecutors described the act as targeted and intentional, with the car accelerating into individuals attempting to leave the celebration.
The court heard that the maximum penalty for the charges is life imprisonment. Doyle remained mostly silent during the proceedings, speaking only to confirm his name, address, and date of birth. He kept his head bowed and occasionally shook it as the allegations were read out.
Reporting restrictions were imposed to protect the identities of the victims. The judge noted the early stage of the investigation and the potential for additional charges, citing the significant public interest and emotional impact on the community.
Doyle was remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear before the Recorder of Liverpool at Liverpool Crown Court. A trial date has been set for November 24, with a plea hearing scheduled for August 14. His legal team indicated that a venue change was under consideration due to the case’s high profile.
Merseyside Police confirmed that 50 people were injured in the incident, with seven still hospitalized. The youngest victim is nine, and the oldest is 78. Authorities are reviewing extensive CCTV and mobile footage from the scene. Investigators quickly ruled out terrorism as a motive, and no drug-related charges have been filed despite initial suspicions.
Friends of Doyle described him as a devoted family man, churchgoer, and community volunteer with no known history of violence. He previously served with 43 Commando in the Royal Marines and has since worked in cybersecurity. Many close to him expressed shock, calling the incident out of character.
The car reportedly accelerated into the crowd after supporters were seen banging on its windows. Footage captured the terrifying moment when several fans were thrown onto the car’s bonnet, with others trapped underneath. Police confirmed that a flatbed truck previously blocking the street had been moved to allow emergency services through, inadvertently clearing a path for the vehicle.
The investigation remains ongoing, with detectives continuing to gather witness statements, medical reports, and video evidence to determine the full sequence of events.
