Liverpool’s captain, Virgil van Dijk, expressed his hopes for a swift recovery for those injured when a car struck supporters during the club’s trophy parade.
Approximately 50 individuals, including four children, sustained injuries when the incident occurred on Monday in central Liverpool while the city celebrated the Premier League victory.
A 53-year-old local man has been arrested in connection with the event. Liverpool City Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram reported that four individuals are in critical condition in the hospital.
Van Dijk took to social media to convey his support, stating, “My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected. Praying for a speedy recovery for everyone who suffered injuries. We are with you all.” He shared a photo of the iconic Royal Liver Building alongside his message.
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp also voiced his sympathy on social media, emphasizing the community’s solidarity: “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are injured and affected.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer assured at a news conference, “Liverpool stands together, and the whole country stands with them.”
Additionally, ex-Liverpool manager and player Kenny Dalglish expressed his feelings of shock and sadness over the incident, describing it as “horrified” and “deeply saddening.”
Liverpool’s chief executive officer, Billy Hogan, extended heartfelt thoughts to all affected by this distressing incident, noting that what began as a celebration turned into a tragic event.
He said, “This weekend was one of joy and emotion for our city and fanbase, and it concluded with scenes of unimaginable distress.”
On Monday, tens of thousands of supporters gathered in Liverpool’s streets to celebrate the team’s success, prompting the closure of Water Street to traffic for the festivities.
Unfortunately, eyewitnesses reported that the car disregarded the road closure signs and crashed into the crowd around 6:00 PM BST, shortly after the bus carrying Liverpool’s players and the Premier League trophy had departed.
Authorities have confirmed that they are not treating the incident as terror-related, and twenty-seven individuals were transported to hospitals across the city for medical attention.
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