Two teenage boys and one girl have died after an Audi crashed into the River Wear in Sunderland, Northumbria Police said. The three teenagers were in the car that entered the water, and a fourth person, a 17-year-old boy, managed to reach safety.
Incident at Panns Bank
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. The driver reportedly managed to jump out of the car.
The 17-year-old boy who reached safety has been arrested in connection with the incident. He is currently in hospital with non-serious injuries, police said.
Police response
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."
He added: "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."
The investigation is at a very early stage, and police have asked the public not to speculate about the incident on social media or in the community, mindful of the potential impact on the families involved.
