On Bank Holiday Monday, a car ploughed into spectators during Liverpool FC’s open‐top bus parade celebrating their Premier League title, hospitalising 27 people—two of whom, including a child, suffered serious injuries. Merseyside Police arrested a 53-year-old man, not treating the incident as terrorism, and urged the public to await official updates.
🗣️ Right-wing figures jump in early
Before facts were confirmed, several right-wing commentators took to social media, drawing fierce backlash:
- Joey Barton initially claimed on X: “Everyone knows what’s gone on.”
He later edited that line out, replacing it with:
“When will it stop.”
- Laurence Fox attacked the BBC as “enemies of the people,” then ominously posted: “What is coming next is inevitable.”
He followed up with:
“You cannot hate them enough.”
Both were accused of “riling up” followers and “weaponising” tragedy.
💬 Public condemnation
Viewers and commentators condemned Fox and Barton for speaking prematurely and inflaming tensions:
“They always show their true colours when horrific stuff like this happen. They never wait for the facts,” wrote one critic.
Former Tory MP Michael Fabricant also weighed in, urging Prime Minister Starmer:
“Be honest about the incident in Liverpool and not withhold information or mislead.”
⚠️ Police appeal
Merseyside Police appealed for calm:
“Please do not speculate or share footage on social media. We are working urgently to support the injured and ensure public safety.”
They reiterated that the investigation is ongoing and details will be released when verified.
You may also like: Reform UK MP left squirming over “blatantly racist” advert
