A man has been sentenced to 21 years and six months for a violent incident at a Liverpool FC victory parade. Paul Doyle, 54, drove his vehicle into a crowd of supporters, injuring more than 130 individuals. The attack occurred around 18:00 BST on May 26, according to Liverpool Crown Court.
Details of the Incident
Doyle, an ex-Royal Marine from Croxteth, Liverpool, expressed that his actions had “ruined so many people’s lives.” He struck multiple victims, including a baby and a 77-year-old woman. He admitted to 31 charges, including causing grievous bodily harm and dangerous driving.
CCTV and Dashcam Evidence
- Footage captured Doyle accelerating towards crowds.
- Witnesses reported scenes of terror as he shouted and swore at individuals while driving.
- Many fans were thrown onto the bonnet of his car or fell beneath it as he sped along Water Street, which was closed to traffic.
Judge Andrew Menary KC described how Doyle “accelerated into groups of fans” multiple times, creating chaos and fear. The judge highlighted that victims were knocked over or trapped beneath his vehicle.
Victim Accounts
The two-day sentencing hearing revealed harrowing testimony from victims. Sheree Aldridge, 37, feared for the life of her infant after his pram was thrown in the air. A twelve-year-old boy recounted the moment he was hit, expressing that he had never felt so scared.
Context of Doyle’s Actions
During police questioning, Doyle claimed he acted in panic upon seeing someone he believed had a knife. However, no evidence supported this claim, and he was found to have no mental impairments from drugs or alcohol at the time.
Previous Criminal History
Doyle had a record of serious violence in his youth but had maintained a clean slate for 30 years prior to the event. In 1994, he was jailed for grievous bodily harm after a violent confrontation.
Bravery in Crisis
During the incident, bystander Daniel Barr was praised for his courageous actions. He jumped into Doyle’s vehicle to stop it, preventing further injuries and potentially saving lives.
Community Response
Crown Prosecutor James Allison noted that the incident stemmed from Doyle losing his temper. Det Ch Insp John Fitzgerald of Merseyside Police remarked on Doyle’s reckless disregard for public safety, especially concerning children present at the parade.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of uncontrolled rage, impacting many lives that day.
