LIVERPOOL — Merseyside Police have arrested a 53-year-old white British man following an incident in which a car drove into pedestrians on Water Street during Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade on Monday.

Authorities have not confirmed whether the man in custody was the driver of the vehicle, and have urged the public not to speculate on the circumstances of the incident while investigations are underway.

Thousands of fans were gathered on the city’s streets to celebrate the club’s league title when the vehicle entered the crowd, prompting panic and screams, according to eyewitnesses.

A BBC reporter at the scene said, “I grabbed my daughter and dived out of the way,” as people scrambled to safety.

Emergency services responded quickly, and North West Ambulance Service said its crews are actively treating those affected. The extent of injuries and number of casualties remains unclear as of this report.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the incident, calling the scenes “appalling” and extended his thanks to emergency responders for their swift action.

Police have cordoned off the area as investigations continue. — BBC