A 17-year-old boy has been arrested after three teenagers died when an Audi plunged into the River Wear in Sunderland.
The black Audi A3 came off the road near Wearmouth Bridge and entered the water at around 1.30pm, Northumbria Police said. The vehicle was carrying four people at the time. Two teenage boys and a teenage girl were recovered dead from the river following a major multi-agency search. The 17-year-old male driver managed to reach safety and was taken to hospital with non-serious injuries.
Chief Superintendent Scott Cowie, area commander for Sunderland, told reporters the investigation remains at a “very early stage” and urged the public not to speculate. He said:
“This is a truly tragic incident where three young people have lost their lives. Our thoughts are with their families, friends and all those impacted by what has happened. We will continue to support them in any way that we can and ask that their privacy is respected at this time. I want to thank all of our partners who supported the multi-agency search efforts.”
Emergency services descended on the scene within minutes of the incident. The Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service sent two fire engines and a fire boat. The North East Ambulance Service dispatched three emergency ambulances, a clinical team leader, three officers, its full Hazardous Area Response Team and an air ambulance. The Coastguard and RNLI also joined the hours-long search operation.
The ambulance service confirmed one person was transported to hospital by road for further treatment. In a statement, it said:
“We sent a number of resources to the scene, including three emergency ambulances, a clinical team leader, three officers, our full Hazardous Area Response Team as well as the air ambulance. Once on scene, our teams worked closely with colleagues at the Coastguard, RNLI, fire service and the police. We transported one person to hospital by road for further treatment. Sadly, despite the best efforts of all emergency services in attendance, three teenagers died at the scene. We extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragic event and thank everyone whose dedication, compassion and support helped those involved during such difficult circumstances.”
Local residents described the sudden chaos that erupted on their doorstep. A man who did not wish to be identified told the Press Association he heard a bang and a sound like “a very large rock hitting water,” followed shortly by sirens. Another resident, speaking to the outlet, said his neighbour had witnessed the incident from his window and called the police. He added:
“There were loads of ambulances here. We had helicopters here at one point. This is the first time I’ve ever seen anything like this around here. I’ve lived here for three years, this is sad to see. Some families may get some awful, awful news today.”
Police have confirmed the next of kin of the three deceased teenagers have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.