Teenagers killed in River Wear crash named
The names of three teenagers who died when a car entered the River Wear in Sunderland can now be confirmed.
The names of three teenagers who died when a car entered the River Wear in Sunderland can now be confirmed.
Shortly before 1.30pm yesterday, police 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.
Jackson Duke, 17, and Luke Etheridge and Zara Shaw, both aged 16, were all in the car at that time.
Jackson and Luke were from the Sunderland area, while Zara was from Houghton-le-Spring.
Their next of kin continue to be supported by officers.
The investigation into the circumstances leading to the car entering the water remains ongoing.
Enquiries are at an early stage, but no other vehicles are believed to have been involved.
Another occupant of the car – a 17-year-old boy - reached safety and sustained non-serious injuries.
He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and he remains in police custody at this time.
However, enquiries remain ongoing to establish who was the driver of the car at the time it entered the water.
Chief Supt Scott Cowie, 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.”
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.”
Earlier, Sunderland College shared a tribute on social media, to the teenagers;
"We are deeply saddened to hear three students from our Bede Campus tragically lost their lives yesterday afternoon.
"This is a heartbreaking 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.
"Support is available to any students or our colleagues who may be affected by this tragedy and ask that the privacy of the families of those involved is respected."