Three teenagers have lost their lives after a vehicle drove into the River Wear in Sunderland. Northumbria Police confirmed that shortly before 13:30 BST, a black Audi A3 left the road at Panns Bank, near Wearmouth Bridge, and entered the water.
There were four occupants in the vehicle at the time of the crash. A 17-year-old male was able to reach safety and is currently receiving treatment in hospital for non-serious injuries. He has since been taken into custody in connection with the incident.
Rescue teams recovered the bodies of two teenage boys and a teenage girl from the river. Authorities stated that no other vehicles appear to have been involved in the crash.
Emergency services, including the RNLI, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, and North East Ambulance Service, responded to the scene. Members of the public have been urged to stay away from the area as the investigation progresses.
Chief Superintendent Scott Cowie, area commander for Sunderland, described the event as “a truly tragic incident” and expressed condolences to the families and friends of those affected. He noted that the inquiry is in its early stages and officers are working to establish the full circumstances.
Kim McGuinness, the North East mayor, said she has been kept updated by the incident commander. Lewis Atkinson, Labour MP for Sunderland Central, also expressed his thoughts with everyone involved and the emergency responders on social media.
Three young lives gone. This is a terrible tragedy for Sunderland. Let’s keep the focus on supporting their families right now.
River Wear is dangerous in winter. Please stay away from that area while police investigate. So sad.
Arrested? That changes everything. Was he driving? Why would a survivor face arrest instead of just being questioned?
I can’t believe someone survived this crash. How did that boy manage to get out? Truly shocking incident near the bridge.
Devastating news. My heart breaks for the families of those three teens who lost their lives so unnecessarily.