“Extremely fortunate to survive” – Liverpool supporter hit by car shares story following parade incident

What started as a dream day for two Liverpool fans quickly turned into a nightmare during the city’s Premier League victory parade.

Jack Trotter and his girlfriend, Abbie Gallagher, had traveled from Newtownards, County Down, to join the thousands celebrating along Liverpool’s streets.

However, the festive mood turned to fear when a car drove into the crowd on Water Street around 6pm on Monday.

After being released from hospital, Jack told the BBC: “I’ve never experienced such a dramatic shift from pure joy to shock so fast, if that makes sense.”

His immediate concern was for Abbie’s safety: “My first thought was, ‘Where is Abbie? I have to find her.’ Thankfully, she was shouting my name and I was able to reach her.”

Jack sustained back and leg injuries and was taken to hospital by ambulance. He now relies on crutches but feels “very lucky” to be alive and grateful for the support they’ve received.

Abbie recalled the horrifying moment the car hit the crowd, saying she had to push herself off the bonnet.

“All I remember is suddenly seeing the car,” she said. “I was crying and screaming, and then I heard, ‘I’m here, I’m here.’”

Earlier in the day, the couple had enjoyed what Jack described as an “unforgettable” experience, especially getting a close glimpse of Virgil van Dijk. The celebration atmosphere had started from the moment they boarded the train.

Manager Jürgen Klopp captured the mood, calling the day a display of “the two faces of life.”

“The parade was amazing, the atmosphere was electric—and then in a split second, everything changed,” he said.

He continued: “There are more important things than football. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured and their families.”

Abbie echoed his message, reminding everyone to appreciate the people around them.

“Keep your loved ones close,” she said. “Be thankful, because it can all be gone in an instant.”

Police later confirmed 65 people were injured, including four children—one seriously. A 53-year-old man from West Derby has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and driving under the influence of drugs.

As Klopp said, football gave us another memorable day—but it also came with a harsh reminder of how fragile life truly is.