At least 10 people, including children, have been injured in Newcastle after an 18-year-old Knights supporter allegedly lost control of his car and crashed into a crowd of thousands gathered to farewell the city’s NRL team ahead of the Grand Final.
Emergency crews were called to the Newcastle Link Road roundabout on Transfield Avenue at about 9.30am on Saturday after reports that a vehicle had driven into spectators.
The driver of the gold BMW, an 18-year-old P-plater, was arrested at the scene. Police are investigating the crash and have confirmed it is not believed to be terror-related.
Ten people were treated for injuries, including a five-year-old girl and a 67-year-old man who are both in critical condition.
Eight other injured people are in a stable condition. They include another five-year-old girl, a two-year-old girl and adults aged between 25 and 63.
“It is under investigation and the young driver is now with police,” Newcastle Lord Mayor Gavin Morris told ABC News.
“It appears that he was revving the car in some form. He was excited. He was a supporter. He was there for the joy of the moment as well. And somehow, yes, he has lost control of the car.”
“He’s gone into the crowd and I believe about nine were injured, which sadly also included children.”
Fans gathered to farewell the Newcastle Knights as the team departed for the NRL Grand Final
A young Knights supporter allegedly lost control of his car and crashed into a crowd of thousands
At least nine people, including children, were injured in the incident
The crash disrupted the planned route for the Newcastle Knights’ Grand Final procession, which was redirected along an alternative route.
Footage shared on social media appears to show the driver being arrested, while onlookers can be heard shouting insults at him.
The Newcastle Knights responded to the incident in a statement posted on social media.
“We apologise to anybody who was waiting and missed the bus, but public safety is our priority,” the club said.
A club representative later spoke to reporters early on Saturday afternoon.
“The thoughts of everyone at our club are with those that are impacted by this event, their families, and also those who are on scene,” he said.
“Respectfully, now, this is a matter for NSW Police so, at this stage, the club can make no further comment.”
Newcastle Link Road has been closed in both directions and is expected to remain shut for some time as police inquiries continue.
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The driver was arrested at the scene
The incident impacted the planned route of the Newcastle Knights Grand Final procession
Emergency services were called to the Newcastle Link Road roundabout on Transfield Avenue at about 9.30am
‘Police acknowledge many loyal supporters may have missed the opportunity to see the team and show their support,’ a police statement said.
‘Members of the public are asked to safely disperse from the area and keep roadways clear to assist emergency services and traffic management efforts.
‘Police thank the community for their patience, cooperation and assistance. Further information will be provided as it becomes available.’
NSW Premier Chris Minns urged fans travelling to Sydney for the game to take care on the roads.
‘It’s heartbreaking to see fans who were sending off their grand final team involved in such a terrible incident,’ he said.
‘My thoughts are with the families and friends of loved ones who have been involved or injured in the crash. I also want to thank emergency services, including police and ambulance, who are responding to this tragedy.
‘We’ve seen how this grand final has brought Newcastle together, and I hope the whole community remains united as we continue to respond.’
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also spoken out, saying he had discussed the incident with Minns.
Of those injured, one patient is in a critical condition, while a second is in a critical but stable condition
The Newcastle Knights said in a statement: ‘The thoughts of everyone at our club are with those who have been impacted by this event.’
Newcastle Link Road has been closed in both directions and is expected to remain closed for some time while inquiries continue
‘My thoughts are with everyone injured or involved in the horrible incident this morning in Newcastle,’ he said.
‘I want to acknowledge and thank emergency services and police for responding so quickly, and for their ongoing work treating those injured.
‘Rugby league brings people together, and this should have been a weekend of excitement and pride for Newcastle fans.’
More to come.
