Former Royal Marine Jailed After Driving Into Crowds at Liverpool Parade

A former Royal Marine who drove his car into crowds during a packed Liverpool parade has been condemned for acting with “inexplicable and undiluted fury,” as prosecutors detailed how he violently knocked people aside and ran others over during what was meant to be a day of celebration.

The parade, attended by around one million people, was supposed to be “a day of joyfulness,” prosecutor Paul Greaney told the court. Instead, the driver, identified as Doyle, ploughed through pedestrians, striking multiple victims before being stopped.

Doyle told police he had acted in a “blind panic,” claiming he feared for his life after seeing a fan with a knife. Investigators later dismissed that account. Dashcam footage recovered from Doyle’s vehicle and played in court captured him raging at people in his path, undermining his claim that he was acting out of fear.

Prosecutor David Menary said the footage showed Doyle was not panicking but was instead driven by uncontrolled anger. “This was not fear,” Menary said, describing the behaviour as a sustained outburst of rage.

The attack ended only after former soldier Dan Barr climbed into the back seat of the moving car and forced the gear shifter into park. Even then, court testimony said Doyle kept his foot on the accelerator until he was restrained.

As he was taken into a police van, Doyle was heard telling officers: “I’ve just ruined my family’s life.”

Merseyside Police senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector John Fitzgerald said Doyle’s actions shattered what should have been a celebratory occasion for the city. He said no prison sentence could undo the harm caused or fully heal those still suffering physically and psychologically from the attack.

Doyle’s lawyer, Simon Csoska, told the court his client was “horrified” by what he had done and the consequences of his actions. He said Doyle was remorseful, ashamed and deeply sorry, adding that he accepted full responsibility and did not seek sympathy.

The case has left a lasting impact on victims and witnesses, casting a shadow over an event that had been intended to unite the city in celebration.