Liverpool, UK – Paul Doyle, 54, broke down in tears at Liverpool Crown Court on Tuesday as the jury was selected for his trial. Doyle faces 31 charges related to an incident on May 26, 2025, when his vehicle collided with crowds gathered to celebrate Liverpool Football Club's Premier League title win.
Doyle, of Croxteth, Liverpool, is accused of dangerous driving, affray, 17 counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, nine counts of causing GBH with intent, and three counts of wounding with intent. He has denied all charges.
The incident occurred on Water Street in Liverpool city center, shortly after 6 p.m., as fans were leaving the victory parade. Over 130 people reported injuries, with more than 50 requiring hospital treatment, including four children. The charges against Doyle relate to 29 alleged victims, ranging in age from six months to 77 years old. One of the youngest victims is Teddy Eveson, who Doyle is accused of attempting to cause GBH to with intent.
During the jury selection process, Doyle, dressed in a black suit and glasses with his hair slicked back, confirmed his identity. As potential jurors entered the courtroom, Doyle held his head in his hands and began to cry. Five women and seven men were eventually sworn in to serve on the jury, with two additional women selected as reserve jurors.
Judge Andrew Menary KC, the Recorder of Liverpool, addressed the jury, emphasizing the importance of impartiality and adherence to the rules of the court. He cautioned them against conducting their own research or discussing the trial on social media, stressing that their decisions must be based solely on the evidence presented in court.
Before the jury entered the courtroom, Doyle was rearraigned on four counts, which had been amended to reflect medical evidence. He entered not guilty pleas to these amended counts.
The trial is expected to last three to four weeks. Prosecutors allege that Doyle "used his vehicle deliberately as a weapon" and "drove deliberately at people". Some of the witnesses are expected to give evidence from behind screens.
Doyle has been in custody since his arrest following the incident. He was initially charged with seven offenses, but an additional 24 counts were added in August. He appeared in court via video link in September, where he pleaded not guilty to all 31 charges.
The jury was sent home shortly after midday on Tuesday and instructed to return on Wednesday, when the prosecution is scheduled to open the case. The trial continues to draw significant public attention due to the large number of people injured and the event's connection to the Liverpool Football Club's victory parade.
