A horrific accident in Sunderland, England, has left three teenagers dead as a car plunged into a river. A 17-year-old boy has been arrested as new harrowing details emerge.
Three teenagers have tragically died after a car plunged into the River Wear in Sunderland, England, police have confirmed. Police arrested a 17-year-old boy after the incident, which happened around 1:30 p.m. near Wearmouth Bridge.
Police said a black Audi A3 came off the road and entered the river, sparking a major search operation. The bodies of two teenage boys and a teenage girl were recovered from the water.
The 17-year-old boy managed to escape the car and reach safety. Police said the teenager is currently in hospital receiving treatment for injuries that are not believed to be serious.
Officers also confirmed that four people were inside the car when it struck the water. Chief Superintendent Scott Cowie, area commander for Sunderland, described the incident as “truly tragic” as three young people lost their lives.
In a statement, Scott Cowie said that the investigation into what happened is still at a “very early stage.” He urged members of the public not to speculate about what could’ve happened.
“This is a truly tragic incident where three young people have lost their lives,” the Chief Superintendent said. “Our thoughts are with their families, friends and all those impacted by what has happened. 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.”
Three teenagers die after car plunges into river – 17-year-old arrested
The Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service sent two fire engines and a fire boat to the scene to help with the rescue operation. Meanwhile, the North East Ambulance Service also responded.
They sent three emergency ambulances, a specialist hazardous area response team, and an air ambulance
“Sadly, despite the best efforts of all emergency services in attendance, three teenagers died at the scene. We extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragic event and thank everyone whose dedication, compassion and support helped those involved during such difficult circumstances,” the North East Ambulance Service wrote in a statement.
As mentioned, investigators have not yet fully determined exactly what happened. However, a local resident gave a harrowing recollection of the scene.
“There were loads of ambulances here. We had helicopters here at one point. This is the first time I’ve ever seen anything like this around here,” they told the Daily Mail. “I’ve lived here for three years; this is sad to see. Some families may get some awful, awful news today.”
Our thoughts are with those affected by this immense tragedy.
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