A former Royal Marine commando accused of intentionally ramming his vehicle into a crowd of Liverpool football supporters during a victory parade broke down in tears during a court appearance on Thursday, where he faced 24 additional charges, including two involving alleged baby victims.
Paul Doyle, 53, of Liverpool, is accused of dangerous driving and causing grievous bodily harm with intent after a Ford Galaxy allegedly ploughed into fans on Water Street in the city centre on 26 May, injuring 134 people.
Asked to confirm his identity in the dock, the father of three appeared emotional, replying, “Yes I am,” in a choked voice. Wearing a grey T-shirt, Doyle was seen wiping his eyes during the brief hearing.
Initially charged with seven offences linked to six individuals, Doyle now faces a total of 31 counts.
These include 19 counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, seven counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, three counts of wounding with intent, one count of dangerous driving, and one count of affray.
The alleged victims range in age from six months to 77 years old, with six children among them, two of whom are infants aged six and seven months.
The incident took place on the evening of 26 May, as Liverpool fans were leaving an open-top bus parade celebrating their Premier League title win.
A large press presence and several family members attended the 15-minute hearing at Liverpool Crown Court. Judge Andrew Menary KC, the Recorder of Liverpool, postponed the plea hearing after Doyle’s defence team said they had not yet reviewed crucial evidence.
The plea hearing is now scheduled for 4 September, with a provisional trial date set for 24 November, expected to last three to four weeks.