The three teenagers who died when a car crashed into the River Wear in Sunderland on Tuesday have been named as Jackson Duke, 17, Zara Shaw, 16, and Luke Etheridge, 16. All three were in a black Audi A3 which came off the road at Panns Bank, near to the Wearmouth Bridge.
Victims and arrests
Both teenage boys were from Sunderland, while Zara was from Houghton-le-Spring, Northumbria Police confirmed. A fourth teenager, 17, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, though police said investigations to establish who was driving the car remain ongoing.
At around 1.30pm on Tuesday, police received reports of the vehicle coming off the road in the area. The crash survivor has suffered what were described as non-serious injuries.
Police response
A police investigation remains ongoing. Ch Supt Scott Cowie, Northumbria Police area commander for Sunderland, said: "First and foremost, our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the teenagers who have tragically lost their lives. The last 24 hours have brought unimaginable agony and heartbreak for the loved ones of Luke, Jackson and Zara."
"All three had their whole futures ahead of them and will be hugely missed. I know the wider community will want to join me in offering their families’ our heartfelt condolences at this devastating time."
"We will do everything we can to support them, and would continue to ask for their privacy to be respected. We also recognise the impact that this tragedy has had upon the people of Sunderland and further afield, and know that you will continue to be there for one another."
The senior officer 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."
Appeal and tributes
Anyone who may have information, especially dashcam footage or CCTV, is asked to contact Northumbria Police online, by sending a social media DM or using the force website. There is also a major incident portal where members of the public can submit video footage at mipp.police.uk/operation/10NP26A30-PO1. The public are also able to call 101, using reference number NP-20260929-0589.
Earlier on Wednesday, Sunderland College, where all three youngsters were pupils, released a statement paying tribute to them. College leaders said: "We are deeply saddened to hear three students from our Bede Campus tragically lost their lives yesterday afternoon. 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."
