A Ukrainian woman who recently fled the war in her home country has described her experience of being seriously injured during a chaotic incident at a Liverpool FC trophy parade as “one of the most traumatic experiences” of her life. Anna Bilonozhenko, 43, sustained a fractured right knee when a vehicle, driven by Paul Doyle, plowed into a crowd of fans celebrating the club’s recent success.
The incident occurred on December 16, 2025, during a parade that drew thousands of Liverpool supporters to the streets of the city. The event was intended to celebrate Liverpool FC’s victory in the Premier League, a moment of pride for the club and its fans. However, the festive atmosphere turned to chaos when Doyle’s Ford Galaxy struck more than 130 people in a matter of minutes, leading to multiple injuries and a significant police response.
Bilonozhenko, who had recently relocated to the United Kingdom to escape the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, was among those injured in the incident. She described the moment of impact as surreal, recalling how she was knocked to the ground and immediately felt intense pain in her knee. “I never thought I would experience something like this after fleeing a war,” she said. “It was supposed to be a day of joy, and instead, it turned into a nightmare.”
Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene, and the injured were transported to various hospitals across Liverpool. The scale of the injuries prompted a major response from local health services, with several individuals requiring urgent medical attention. In total, over 30 people were hospitalized, with injuries ranging from minor to severe. Bilonozhenko’s injury, a fractured knee, will require surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation process.
The driver, Paul Doyle, 35, was arrested at the scene and later charged with multiple counts of dangerous driving and causing bodily harm. Authorities have stated that they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including whether Doyle was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash. Witnesses reported that the vehicle appeared to accelerate into the crowd, raising questions about the driver’s intentions.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and concern within the community. Liverpool Mayor Joanne Anderson expressed her shock and sympathy for the victims, stating, “This was a day meant for celebration, and it is heartbreaking to see it marred by such a tragic event. Our thoughts are with those injured and their families.” The local police department has also urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, as they continue to gather evidence.
Bilonozhenko’s experience highlights the broader implications of violence and trauma, particularly for individuals who have already faced significant challenges in their lives. Having fled the war in Ukraine, Bilonozhenko had hoped for a fresh start in the UK, where she sought safety and stability. Instead, she now faces the physical and emotional toll of her injuries, compounded by the trauma of her past experiences.
The Liverpool FC trophy parade was intended to be a celebration of the club’s achievements and a unifying event for fans. However, the attack has raised questions about public safety at large gatherings and the measures in place to protect attendees. Local authorities are expected to review security protocols for future events to prevent similar incidents from occurring.
As the investigation into the incident continues, Bilonozhenko’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of violence and its impact on individuals and communities. The aftermath of the parade attack will likely resonate within Liverpool and beyond, as discussions about safety, community support, and the experiences of refugees come to the forefront.
In the days following the incident, community members have rallied around the victims, offering support and assistance as they navigate the challenges of recovery. Bilonozhenko, despite her injuries, remains hopeful for the future. “I want to heal and move forward,” she said. “I want to find peace in my new home.”
The incident at the Liverpool FC trophy parade underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness in public spaces, as well as the need for compassion and support for those affected by violence. As the community comes together to heal, the focus will remain on ensuring safety and fostering a sense of unity in the face of adversity.
