Members of the British royal family have issued public statements following a tragic incident at Liverpool's city centre Monday evening, where a grey Ford Galaxy drove into crowds gathered for a Premier League trophy celebration, injuring nearly 50 people, including four children.
The crash occurred around 6 p.m. on Water Street, where fans had assembled to mark Liverpool Football Club's victory. Merseyside Police arrested a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area at the scene. Authorities confirmed the incident is not being treated as terror-related and stated they are not seeking any additional suspects.
King Charles and Queen Camilla said in a statement: "My wife and I were deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the terrible events that took place in Liverpool on Monday. It is truly devastating to see that what should have been a joyous celebration for so many could end in such distressing circumstances. At this heartbreaking time for the people of Liverpool, I know that the strength of community spirit for which your city is renowned will be a comfort and support to those in need. Our prayers and deepest sympathy are with all those who have been affected, and my special gratitude goes out to the first responders, emergency services personnel and other individuals who rushed to the aid of the injured."
The Prince and Princess of Wales released a separate message expressing similar sentiments: "We are deeply saddened by the scenes in Liverpool yesterday. 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."
According to David Kitchin of the North West Ambulance Service, 27 individuals were transported to area hospitals, while another 20 were treated at the scene. "This is indeed an appalling incident and we understand that people will be deeply upset," he said.
Three adults and one child had to be rescued from beneath the vehicle by emergency crews. According to Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, fire crews lifted the vehicle to rescue those trapped underneath. Patients were taken to Royal Liverpool Hospital, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Arrowe Park, and Aintree Hospital.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims described the collision as an "isolated incident" and urged the public not to speculate. "Extensive inquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances leading up to the collision," she said during a press briefing at the Cunard Building.
On Tuesday, Princess Anne visited Royal Liverpool University Hospital to meet emergency responders and staff involved in the incident. Wearing a red jacket and burgundy skirt, the Princess Royal spent nearly an hour with paramedics and hospital personnel and received a round of applause for her visit.
Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of Liverpool City Region, told BBC Radio 5 Live on Tuesday that four of the injured remain "very, very ill in hospital." He said there was a "big question" over how the driver managed to plough through the crowd. He added: "Water Street was not a route where vehicles were supposed to be using it. It was blocked off."
