Liverpool parade attacker jailed for more than 21 years for ploughing car into fans
2001 Min Read
A former Royal Marine has been sentenced to more than 21 years in prison for driving into crowds of Liverpool supporters during a victory parade, in an attack described by the judge as “truly shocking” and beyond ordinary comprehension.
Paul Doyle, 54, bowed his head as he was jailed at Liverpool Crown Court, while victims and relatives watched from the public gallery, some visibly distressed. Sentencing him to 21 years and six months, Judge Menary said Doyle had inflicted “horror and devastation on a scale not previously experienced by this court”.
The attack took place on 26 May, when Doyle used his two-tonne Ford Galaxy to drive aggressively through packed streets, hitting 134 people in just two minutes. Merseyside police said it was a “miracle” no one was killed. Victims ranged in age from six months to 77 years, with several left with life-changing injuries and many others traumatised.
Doyle claimed he acted in “blind panic” after fearing for his life, but detectives rejected this account. Dashcam footage showed him accelerating towards crowds while shouting abuse. Judge Menary said the evidence revealed “inexplicable and undiluted fury”, not fear.
Doyle pleaded guilty to 31 offences involving 29 victims, including children. His rampage was eventually stopped by a former soldier who forced the car into park.
