Two teen boys and woman useless after Audi crashes into river as 17-year-old arrested
Northumbria Police confirmed that three teenagers had tragically died in the incident, with a fourth who was behind the wheel managing to escape before being arrested
Police have revealed three people have died (Image: Chronicle Live)
Two teenage boys and one girl have tragically died after an Audi crashed into the River Wear in Sunderland this afternoon, Northumbria Police said.
The three teenagers were in the car that entered the river. It’s understood that four people were in the vehicle when it plunged into the water, but the driver reportedly managed to jump out of the car.
Northumbria Police received reports that a black Audi A3 had come off the road at Panns Bank near Wearmouth Bridge and entered the water at around 1.30pm.
Emergency vehicles swarmed the area earlier today (Image: Chronicle Live)
A 17-year-old boy managed to reach safety and has now been arrested in connection with the incident.
He is currently in hospital with non-serious injuries, police said.
Chief Supt Scott Cowie, Area Commander for Sunderland, 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.
“Our investigation is at a very early stage in establishing the circumstances surrounding what has happened. We would ask members of the public not to speculate about the incident both on social media and in the community.
“In doing so, please be mindful of the potential impact such commentary could have on the families of those involved in this incident.”
Northumbria Police continue to ask members of the public to avoid the area and not to livestream or share images from the scene.
Anyone with information, particularly those with CCTV or dashcam footage, should send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use live chat and report forms on the Force’s website.
Those who are unable to make contact in these ways can call 101. Please quote reference number: NP-20260929-0589.
