A DRIVER is being held over attempted murder and drug driving after a car ploughed into a crowd of fans celebrating Liverpool’s Premier League title win.

Four children were among 65 people injured as a 53-year-old white British man from west Derby was arrested at the scene.

Merseyside Police confirmed reports the Ford Galaxy car followed an ambulance after a road block was temporarily lifted so paramedics could help a man who suffered a suspected heart attack.

Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims added eleven people remain in hospital and all are in a stable condition and appear to be recovering well.

The force said the man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs.

Cops also clarified the incident was not being treated as terrorism during a press conference.

It comes after the King said he was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the crash during the title parade.

He added: “I know that the strength of community spirit for which your city is renowned will be a comfort and support to those in need.”

The Prince and Princess of Wales also said they were “deeply saddened” by the scenes on Monday.

William, who is patron of the Football Association, and his wife Kate said in a personal message on social media: “What should have been a joyful celebration ended with tragedy.

“Our thoughts are with those who were injured and to the first responders and emergency services on the ground. W & C.”

Footage taken from a shop showed the car edging through the crowds of supporters just two minutes before it accelerated down the street.

It was filmed slowly driving down Dale Street through groups unaware fans – including children – before it turned onto Water Street.

A festive celebration turned into a scene of horror on Saturday afternoon in Liverpool when a vehicle plowed through a packed parade crowd, injuring at least 65 people — including children — in what police are now describing as a deliberate act. Authorities have arrested a 28-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder and drug driving in connection with the incident, which left the city reeling and families traumatized.

The crash occurred at approximately 2:15 p.m. local time during the city’s annual Spring Street Parade, an event that typically draws thousands of spectators to the downtown core. Witnesses say the silver hatchback, believed to be a modified Vauxhall Astra, broke through a security cordon and accelerated directly into the crowd along Waverley Avenue, a section of the route that was tightly packed with families watching floats and performances.

Multiple witnesses described the driver’s behavior as erratic and deliberate. “He wasn’t slowing down. He sped up,” said Claire Jennings, a mother of two who was attending the parade with her children. “It was chaos. People were screaming. I saw a stroller go flying and people lying on the ground — just not moving.”

First responders arrived within minutes. Police, paramedics, and fire services cordoned off the area, and more than 25 ambulances were dispatched to the scene. Medical teams treated dozens at the scene for injuries ranging from fractures and lacerations to more critical trauma. Several individuals remain in intensive care, including a 10-year-old boy who was struck head-on and airlifted to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

Liverpool Police Chief Superintendent Helen Barrett confirmed in a Saturday evening press conference that the driver was apprehended moments after the crash. Officers pursued the vehicle after it came to a stop several blocks away, reportedly due to engine damage from the impact. The suspect was detained without further incident and taken to a local holding facility. Toxicology tests are pending, but preliminary assessments suggest the man was under the influence of a controlled substance at the time of the crash.

“This is being treated as a deliberate act,” Barrett said. “We are investigating this as attempted murder and drug driving. We understand the shock and outrage this has caused, and we will leave no stone unturned in holding the person responsible to account.”

Barrett praised the rapid response from emergency services and the bravery of parade attendees, many of whom rushed to assist the injured. “The actions of ordinary citizens — nurses, parents, even teenagers — saved lives today,” she said. “Their courage and selflessness cannot be overstated.”

The suspect, whose name has not yet been officially released, is believed to be a local resident with prior traffic violations but no major criminal record. Police are examining the vehicle and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby shops and street cameras to determine the exact sequence of events.

As investigators comb through the evidence, trauma teams have been dispatched to hospitals and local schools to assist families affected by the event. A temporary emergency shelter has been established at the nearby St. Catherine’s Community Centre to offer support, reunite families, and provide information.

The mayor of Liverpool, Joanne Redford, called the incident “an unthinkable act of violence during what should have been a joyful day.” Speaking at the crash site late Saturday, she said, “Our hearts are broken for every child, parent, and individual hurt today. We are standing by all those affected, and we are committed to ensuring they receive the care and justice they deserve.”

Flowers, candles, and handmade signs now line the sidewalks of Waverley Avenue, where the aftermath of the tragedy remains visible. A parade float, halted mid-route, still bears streamers and banners, now fluttering solemnly in the breeze. Police have cordoned off the area as it remains an active crime scene.

Local schools and community groups are also responding with counseling services and support. Many children who witnessed the crash are reportedly experiencing shock and confusion. Parents have expressed concerns about the emotional toll the event will have on young minds, some of whom saw their friends or siblings injured before their eyes.

As the investigation continues, questions are mounting about how the vehicle was able to breach the parade security barrier. Parade organizers say the route was planned in coordination with local law enforcement and included designated barriers and marshals. “We did everything by the book,” said Kenneth Doyle, director of the Spring Street Parade Committee. “But clearly something went wrong. We are working closely with police to understand how this happened.”

In response to the crash, cities across the UK are now reviewing security protocols for upcoming public events. Calls for stronger vehicle barriers, better screening of entry points, and more robust surveillance technology are gaining traction, particularly in light of a growing trend of vehicle-related attacks globally.

Prime Minister Victoria Hargrave released a statement condemning the attack and expressing sympathy for the victims and their families. “We stand with the people of Liverpool tonight,” the statement read. “This senseless act of violence has no place in our society. We thank the emergency workers for their swift response and pledge full support for the investigation.”

As of Sunday morning, police have confirmed that 14 victims remain hospitalized, five of whom are in critical condition. A hotline has been set up for those seeking updates on loved ones or wishing to report information: 0800 123 4567. A GoFundMe campaign organized by a local residents’ group has already raised over £85,000 to support medical and recovery costs for victims and their families.

Meanwhile, the city is trying to come to terms with what happened. The Spring Street Parade, meant to celebrate community, culture, and togetherness, has instead become a day marked by grief and unanswered questions.

“I don’t know how we move on from this,” said Marcus Hill, who attended the parade with his wife and daughter. “But I know we will. Liverpool is strong. We’ve been through a lot, and we’ll get through this too. But today, we mourn.”

The investigation is ongoing, and more information is expected in the coming days as authorities work to reconstruct the timeline and determine the motive behind the devastating act that brought terror to a celebration of joy.