Hebburn Town Football Club has paid tribute to a young player who was killed when the car he was in went into the River Wear. Jackson Duke, 17, was one of three teenagers to lose their lives in the tragedy, which happened in Sunderland on Tuesday afternoon.
Club's tribute to Jackson Duke
Jackson was an under-18 player for Hebburn Town and had previously played for the South Tyneside club's junior teams. The club has shared its devastation in a social media statement.
"It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news of the passing of Jackson Duke, a much-loved member of Hebburn Town Juniors and one of our U18 players," it said. "Jackson was part of our football family, and his loss will be deeply felt by his teammates, coaches, friends and everyone across our club who knew him.
"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Jackson’s family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. We ask everyone to give them the privacy, care and space they need as they come to terms with their loss. We also ask everyone to please avoid speculation or sharing unconfirmed information, particularly on social media. At a time like this, our focus should be on supporting Jackson’s family, his teammates and one another. Rest in peace, Jackson. You will be remembered, and you will always be part of the Hebburn Town Juniors family."
Minute's silence planned
The club also confirmed that Jackson’s teammates would be holding a minute’s silence this weekend in his memory. "We ask all Hebburn teams to join them in observing this tribute wherever possible," the statement added.
Police say they received a number of reports from the public of a black Audi A3 car coming off the road at Panns Bank near Wearmouth Bridge and entering the water on Tuesday.
Investigation ongoing
Jackson had been in the car along with Zara Shaw and Luke Etheridge, both 16. An investigation into their deaths is ongoing. A 17-year-old boy, who was also in the car, was not seriously injured. He was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
