London, May 27 (AP) A tragic incident occurred in Liverpool on Monday when a man drove a car into a crowd of fans celebrating the team's Premier League title victory. The event took place in the city center, leading to an outpouring of sympathy and support from soccer clubs, players, and governing bodies worldwide.
Emergency services reported that 27 people, including four children, were taken to the hospital, with two suffering serious injuries, while 20 others received treatment at the scene.
The soccer community, including Liverpool's biggest rivals, rallied around the club, England's most decorated men's soccer team, in an overwhelming show of solidarity on social media.
“Our thoughts are with Liverpool FC and the city of Liverpool after today's awful incident,” was the message from Manchester United, Liverpool's historical rival, on X.
Everton, Liverpool's neighbor on Merseyside, echoed similar support, stating, “Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by this serious incident in our city.”
The Premier League expressed its deep shock at the “appalling events” occurring at the conclusion of the team’s title parade, which saw the attendance of hundreds of thousands of fans.
“We have been in contact with Liverpool FC and have offered our full support following this serious incident,” declared the league.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino added his voice on behalf of football’s world governing body, offering thoughts and prayers to those affected.
“Football stands together with Liverpool FC and all fans of the club following the horrific incident,” he stated on X.
Liverpool is a club known for its on-field successes, boasting a record-tying 20 English top-flight titles and six European Cups. However, it also carries the shadow of tragedies from the 1980s, like the deadly stadium disasters at Heysel and Hillsborough.
Kenny Dalglish, Liverpool's former player and manager, referenced the club's anthem “You'll Never Walk Alone” in a social media post, expressing his shock and horror.
“Our anthem,” he noted, “has never felt more appropriate. You'll Never Walk Alone. Your Liverpool family is behind you.”
Jamie Carragher, another former player and current TV commentator, tweeted, “Devastating end to the day… just pray everyone is ok.”
A 53-year-old white British man has been arrested concerning the incident. Police indicated he acted alone and are not treating the case as an act of terrorism. (AP) RHL
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