The family of a teenager who died in a car crash earlier this week have paid tribute to their 'kind' and 'caring' boy. Luke Etheridge was among three victims whose bodies were recovered from the River Wear after a car came off the road from Panns Bank, Sunderland, at around 1.30pm.
Three teens identified
The bodies of Luke Etheridge, Jackson Duke, 17, and Zara Shaw, 16, were recovered from the water. Luke's family have now paid tribute to their "funny and handsome" boy who they say loved his dog Wilf and was a huge football fan.
They said: "Our beautiful boy Luke was loving, kind, caring, funny and handsome. He was so friendly and polite and loved our dog Wilf, shopping for clothes, watching and playing football.
"He always knew the most up to date Sunderland football news and shared it with us immediately. Sunderland will miss its number one fan.
Family's tribute
"Luke loved spending time with all his friends and family. As a family we did everything together from football to holidays, shopping trips and spending time with Wilf our dog.
"Luke is our life, we miss him so bad. Our hearts will ache forever.
"Thanks to all family and friends – we love you x
"Thanks so much to our family liaison officers from Northumbria Police and all of the emergency services involved in helping our boy."
Investigation ongoing
Luke's family have asked that their privacy be respected at this incredibly difficult time. The investigation into the circumstances leading to the car entering the water remains ongoing, and police would continue to ask people to avoid speculation both on social media and in the community.
Anyone with information or footage should submit this via the following link: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/10NP26A30-PO1. Those who are unable to make contact in these ways can call 101. Please quote reference number: NP-20260929-0589.
