Paul Doyle, 54, has changed his pleas to guilty on all 31 charges arising from the crash during Liverpool’s title parade in May. The charges include dangerous driving and affray, nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, 17 counts of attempting to cause GBH, and three counts of wounding with intent.
The incident occurred on 26 May on Water Street, where a Ford Galaxy Titanium collided with crowds gathered to celebrate Liverpool’s 2024/25 Premier League title win. More than 130 people reported injuries. The charges relate to 29 victims, aged between six months and 77 years old.
Court update
A jury was sworn on Tuesday, but on Wednesday morning Doyle re-entered his pleas and admitted all counts. He was remanded in custody. The judge, Andrew Menary KC, listed a two-day sentencing hearing to begin on 15 December and indicated a custodial sentence is likely.
Prosecution and police position
Prosecutors said the decision to plead guilty followed a review of CCTV, mobile phone footage and dashcam material. Police described the scenes as shocking and noted it was “sheer luck” that no one was killed. Investigators say the case has had a continuing physical and psychological impact on many of those present.
Defence-aware context
A change of plea at this stage means the court will move straight to sentencing. In cases involving GBH with intent (often charged under section 18 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861), the court looks at the harm caused, the level of intent, aggravating and mitigating features, and any credit for the timing of the guilty pleas. Sentencing is always fact-specific; no two cases are the same.
What happens next
At the hearing starting 15 December, the court will consider victim personal statements, medical evidence, and submissions from both sides. The judge will then pass sentence in line with relevant Sentencing Council guidelines.
