What was supposed to be a day of celebration for fans of Liverpool Football Club turned into a tragedy as a driver drove into crowds of people, leaving nearly 50 injured.
The terrifying incident took place around 6:00PM on May 26 on Water Street in Liverpool city centre.
People had gathered in the area for the open-top bus parade of Liverpool Football Club to celebrate winning the Premier League.
According to Merseyside Police, a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area is currently in custody and is believed to be the driver of the vehicle.
Authorities confirmed that the incident is not being treated as an act of terrorism.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims addressed the public during a press conference: “Firstly, my thoughts are with all those injured in tonight’s horrific incident, their families and friends, and all those affected by the terrible tragedy that has taken place today.
"I want to thank all the emergency services, partner agencies and members of the public who came to the assistance of the injured following this evening’s shocking events.
"This had been a joyous day in Liverpool with hundreds of thousands of people lining the streets to celebrate Liverpool Football Club’s victory parade."
Tragically, as Sims explained: “Sadly, at just after 6 o’clock this evening, as the parade was drawing to a close, we received reports that a car had been in collision with a number of pedestrians on Water Street in Liverpool city centre.”
She continued: “A number of people have been injured and were taken to hospital. In addition a large number of people of all ages were treated at the scene but did not require hospital treatment. Specialist officers have been put in place to support the injured and their families.”
The car reportedly accelerated into a packed crowd, with horrifying footage showing the vehicle honking before suddenly ploughing into the mass of supporters.
Firefighters had to rescue four individuals - three adults and one child - who were trapped beneath the vehicle.
In total, 27 people were hospitalized, two of them seriously injured, including a child, while 20 others were treated at the scene.
Dave Kitchin from North West Ambulance Service stated: “27 people were taken to hospital and 20 people were treated at the scene, with four children among the injured.”
He added: “Two of those taken to hospital, including one of the children, suffered serious injuries.”
Liverpool Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram gave a sobering update, revealing that four people remain “very, very ill in hospital” and expressed hope that they would “pull through very, very quickly.”
Witnesses described the panic and chaos that unfolded in an instant.
“We were literally like sardines walking up the street, and then we heard beeping and screaming,” Chelsea Yuen told Sky News. “Me and my friend Francesca jumped out of the way and pulled her little girl out the way.”
"I'm just in shock," Yuen added. "We can't stop shaking."
Another eyewitness, Natasha Rinaldi, watched the chaos from her friend’s window.
“People sounded desperate,” she said. “Some of my friends were down there and the car was so near them. It was a horrible scene.”
“We still don't understand what happened, how it happened, why it happened,” she added.
Liverpool Football Club released a statement confirming it is working with police and continuing to support emergency responders.
Their city rivals, Everton FC, also expressed support: “Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by this serious incident in our city.”