Trial begins for man allegedly driving car into crowd at Liverpool title parade

A British man is set to go on trial Tuesday, accused of driving his car into crowds during Liverpool Football Club’s Premier League victory parade in May, injuring dozens of people.
Paul Doyle, 54, has pleaded not guilty to 31 alleged offences, including causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, wounding with intent, affray, and dangerous driving. His trial, before a jury sworn in on Tuesday, is expected to last three to four weeks.
Doyle, from a suburb of northwest England, is alleged to have driven into people as they left the May 26 parade celebrating Liverpool’s record-equalling 20th English top-flight title. The parade had taken place along the city’s waterfront in front of hundreds of thousands of fans, with some roads closed to traffic.
At his first hearing on May 30, prosecutors claimed Doyle “used his vehicle deliberately as a weapon” and “drove deliberately at people.” Doyle appeared emotional in court, wiping away tears.
Merseyside Police quickly confirmed the incident was not terrorism, though the motive remains unclear. Authorities said 134 people—including infants, children, and adults—were injured, with 50 requiring hospital treatment. Four people, including a child, were reportedly trapped under the car, which had to be lifted by fire services.
The charges relate to 29 victims, including at least six children, the youngest just six months old. Some witnesses are expected to give evidence from behind screens.
A father of three and reportedly a former Royal Marine, Doyle has been in custody since his arrest. Initially charged with seven offences, 24 further counts were added to the indictment in August.
On September 4, he appeared via videolink from prison, entering not guilty pleas while wearing glasses and a grey T-shirt. He was not required to attend last week’s court hearing, which finalised preparations for the trial.
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