A college has said its community is "deeply saddened" by the loss of three students who died after the car they were in entered the River Wear. Police are investigating after a black Audi A3 plunged into the river near the Wearmouth Bridge just before 1.30pm on Tuesday with four people inside.
The bodies of two teenage boys and a teenage girl were later recovered. A 17-year-old boy who managed to reach safety was initially taken to hospital but has now been released. He has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and remains in police custody.
College pays tribute to students and emergency services
Sunderland College has described the "heartbreaking" loss of three of its students and paid tribute to the emergency services who responded to the incident. "We are deeply saddened to hear three students from our Bede Campus tragically lost their lives yesterday afternoon," a statement reads. "This is a heart-breaking loss for our college community, and the wider city of Sunderland."
"Everyone at Sunderland College extends our heartfelt thoughts and deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. We also pay tribute to the emergency services and all those who responded at the scene." The college added that support is available to students and colleagues affected and asked that the privacy of the families is respected.
Foundation of Light offers condolences
The Foundation of Light, Sunderland AFC's official charity, has shared that one of the teenagers who died had taken part in one of its football programmes. A spokesperson said: "We are saddened to learn that a young person who took part in one of our football programmes lost their life on Tuesday afternoon."
"Everyone at Foundation of Light sends their condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of all three young people who passed away. Support is available to our participants and colleagues affected by this news. We ask that the privacy of the families of those involved is respected. While the police investigation is ongoing, we will not be commenting on the circumstances of the incident."
Investigation ongoing
The Audi was recovered from the water on Wednesday. Enquiries are at an early stage, but no other vehicles are believed to have been involved. Chief Supt Scott Cowie, Area Commander for Sunderland, said: "Our thoughts very much continue to be with the loved ones of those who have tragically lost their lives. We will support them in any way that we can at this devastating time and ask that their privacy is respected."
He added: "The investigation into the circumstances leading to the car entering the water remains ongoing. We would continue to 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."
