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A joyous celebration in Liverpool turned into chaos and tragedy after a vehicle drove into a crowd during a city parade, injuring nearly 50 people, including several children, and prompting a swift emergency response.

The incident occurred on the final day of a week-long series of celebrations honoring Liverpool FC’s recent championship victory. According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle appeared to bypass police roadblocks by tailing closely behind an ambulance before accelerating into a dense crowd gathered along the parade route.

Among the 48 injured were at least four children, several of whom remain in critical condition at local hospitals. Witnesses described scenes of panic as onlookers rushed to pull victims from the path of the vehicle. “There was screaming everywhere,” said one attendee. “It went from joy to horror in seconds.”

Emergency services arrived on the scene within minutes. Medical personnel established triage zones, while police quickly detained the driver, a man in his 40s whose motives remain under investigation. Initial reports suggest that the incident was not terror-related, though authorities have not yet ruled out foul play.

Liverpool Mayor Elaine Thompson expressed her condolences to the victims and praised first responders for their rapid and professional response. “This is a heartbreaking day for our city. We were celebrating unity and community, and now we are facing unimaginable grief.”

The parade, which drew tens of thousands of fans, was immediately halted. Officials are now reviewing security protocols surrounding large public events, with questions being raised about how the vehicle was able to penetrate secure areas.

The UK Home Office has also become involved, coordinating with Merseyside Police and counterterrorism units to ensure all angles of the investigation are pursued. Prime Minister Keir Starmer issued a brief statement, calling the event “deeply disturbing” and pledging full government support in the aftermath.

Public tributes have begun appearing across Liverpool, with local landmarks illuminated in red and makeshift memorials emerging near the site of the incident. Counseling and support services have been activated for those affected, and a public vigil is being planned.

As investigators work to determine the driver’s intent and whether any systemic failures contributed to the breach, the city of Liverpool mourns what was meant to be a moment of triumph.