THIS is the moment the “drug driver” who caused chaos in a “rampage” at Monday’s Liverpool parade was dragged out of his car by cops.
65 people, including four children, were injured in the horrific scenes, which saw a grey Ford Galaxy plough through huge crowds at the football club’s Premier League victory parade.
The 53-year-old male driver from West Derby, Liverpool, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, suspicion of driving while unfit through drugs and dangerous driving offences.
Footage shows the moment two cops dragged the driver out of his car, after it finally came to a stop in the middle of the parade.
Heroic fans could be seen hitting the car as they tried to slow it down, after scores were left injured in the “rampage”.
Horrifying footage also shows a number of people left laying on the floor around the car, as emergency crews desperately tried to help the injured.
Many fans also took matters into their own hands, helping to save those hurt by the car, clearing out space for paramedics and police to arrest the driver.
Footage then also shows the moment police bundled a man, presumed to be the driver, into a police van.
The driver is currently being held and questioned by Merseyside Police on suspicion of attempted murder and drug driving.
Merseyside Police confirmed reports yesterday that the car followed an ambulance into the parade, after a road block was temporarily lifted so paramedics could help a man who suffered a suspected heart attack.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims explained in an update on Tuesday that eleven people remained in hospital, although all were in a stable condition and appeared to be recovering well.
Cops clarified the incident was not being treated as terrorism during a press conference.
Footage taken from a shop showed the car edging through the crowds of supporters just two minutes before it accelerated down the street.
It was filmed slowly driving down Dale Street through groups unaware fans – including children – before it turned onto Water Street.
The horrific scenes took place shortly after 6pm on Monday in the heart of the Merseyside city.
Detective Chief Superintendent Karen Jaundrill explained police were making “significant progress” in their investigations.
She said: “My thoughts are with all those injured in this awful incident, their families and friends, and everyone who has been affected.
“Like us, many of you will still be coming to terms with what was a harrowing end to a day of celebration.
“I want to reassure the public of Merseyside that detectives are making significant progress as we seek to establish the full circumstances that led to this awful incident and bring the person responsible to justice.”
Figures across the UK have shared their shock over the horrific scenes, with the King saying he was “deeply saddened” by the crash during the title parade.
He added: “I know that the strength of community spirit for which your city is renowned will be a comfort and support to those in need.”
The Prince and Princess of Wales also said they were “deeply saddened” by the scenes on Monday.
William, who is patron of the Football Association, and his wife Kate said in a personal message on social media: “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.”
Liverpool heroes Kenny Dalglish and Jurgen Klopp also led tributes yesterday to those caught in the parade day carnage.
In a message of support to fans Anfield ace Sir Kenny, who won titles as a player and manager, said the club anthem, You’ll Never Walk Alone, “has never felt more appropriate”.
In a statement he said: “Shocked, horrified and deeply saddened about what happened at the end of the parade. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone and their families who have been impacted.
“Our anthem has never felt more appropriate, You’ll Never Walk Alone. Your Liverpool family are behind you.”
Ex-manager Klopp, who won the title in 2020, flew from Germany for Monday’s parade.
He said on social media: “My family and I are shocked and devastated. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those injured and affected. You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Liverpool-born defender Trent Alexander-Arnold said online: My thoughts are with the whole city, especially all affected by yesterday’s devastating events.
“Hopefully those who were injured will make a full recovery and the city will pull together as it always does.”