Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk responds to trophy parade crash that left 65 injured – with suspect, 53, accused of attempted murder and drug-driving

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has sent a heartfelt message to fans after a car ploughed into a group of people following the club’s trophy parade on Monday evening.

The incident occurred at around 6pm on Water Street in Liverpool city centre after thousands had flocked the streets to see their heroes following the Reds’ Premier League title success.

Merseyside Police have now confirmed that 65 people were injured, including children, with 50 taken to hospital for further treatment. The suspect, a 53-year-old white British man from the Liverpool area, has been arrested and is accused of attempted murder, dangerous driving offences and driving under the influence of drugs.

Van Dijk responded to the distressing scenes by posting on his Instagram on Tuesday, as he wished a speedy recovery for the victims.

The Reds defender wrote: ‘My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected. Praying for a speedy recovery for everyone who suffered injuries. We are all with you.’

Van Dijk’s statement came shortly before Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims gave an update on the force’s ‘extensive investigation’ into Monday’s crash, as she explained how the car may have been able to access an area occupied by crowds of people. 

Ms Sims said: ‘It is believed the driver of the Ford Galaxy car involved in this incident was able to follow an ambulance onto Water Street after the road block was temporarily lifted so that the ambulance crew could attend to a member of the public who was having a heart attack.

‘As with many large events, with event organisers we planned for all contingencies and this included the implementation of road closures to protect pedestrians and an armed policing presence was also in place throughout the day.’

Former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp also gave his own response to the horrifying collision on Tuesday morning.

His 25-word statement read: ‘My family and I are shocked and devastated.

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are injured and affected. You’ll never walk alone.’

Liverpool legend and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher took to Instagram in the hours after the incident as well, writing: ‘Devastating end to the day……… just pray everyone is ok,’ alongside a picture of the iconic Liver Building in the city covered in red smoke from flares earlier in the day.

Shortly before the crash took place, Liverpool’s players and staff had been greeted by fans during their 10-mile open-top bus parade on what was supposed to be a day of celebration for the club after securing their 20th top flight title.

The likes of Van Dijk and Mohamed Salah were seen dancing as they took in the atmosphere, with Calvin Harris on DJ duties.

Trent Alexander-Arnold bid his final farewell and broke down in tears for the second straight day ahead of his summer exit.

The right back is expected to join Real Madrid on a free transfer in the coming weeks, and he needed to be comforted by Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai as he got emotional while waving goodbye to fans that had lined the streets.

Shortly afterwards, the parade finished and the terrifying crash happened, with thoughts quickly turning to the victims.

Liverpool issued their own statement on Monday night and the football community united around the Reds, including Merseyside neighbours Everton, Manchester United and Manchester City.

Van Dijk has now broken his own silence amid the ongoing police investigation.