Paul Doyle broke down in tears and changed his plea to guilty, confessing to intentionally driving his car into the crowds during the Liverpool victory parade. Initially, the father of three had denied any involvement in the incident that left over 100 people injured on May 26.
The courtroom atmosphere shifted unexpectedly when both the prosecution and defense requested a brief private discussion just before the proceedings were set to begin. Speculation filled the room at Liverpool Crown Court as everyone awaited the outcome.
Upon reconvening, the newly sworn-in jury was discharged by Judge Andrew Menary KC. Doyle, visibly emotional, removed his glasses, bowed his head, and tearfully admitted to dangerous driving, followed by a confession to all 31 charges against him, including causing grievous bodily harm, attempted GBH, wounding with intent, and affray.
Just a day earlier, Doyle, dressed in the same attire, had pleaded not guilty to some charges but eventually gave in before the scheduled trial. The judge forewarned him of an impending substantial custodial sentence.
Evidence from Doyle’s dashcam was expected to support the prosecution’s argument of driving in a rage, while his defense was likely to focus on his panic amidst the large crowds in Liverpool city center. Doyle, from Croxteth, Merseyside, will face sentencing on December 15 after further evidence is presented.