A five-year-old girl and a 67-year-old man remain in a critical condition in an induced coma after an 18-year-old driver crashed his vehicle into a crowd of Newcastle Knights supporters in Newcastle on Saturday morning. Ten people were injured in total, with eight others treated for injuries ranging from stable to serious conditions.
Police confirm driver arrested at scene
New South Wales Police arrested the 18-year-old P-plater at the scene following the crash near the Newcastle Link Road roundabout at Wallsend at approximately 9:30 a.m. The driver was taken to hospital for mandatory testing, as required under state law. Police have not yet disclosed the results of these tests or confirmed whether alcohol or drugs were involved.
Emergency response and hospital updates
Emergency services deployed three helicopters and 15 ambulances to the scene, transporting all injured individuals to John Hunter Hospital. The Newcastle Knights team bus, originally scheduled to pass through the area, was diverted to a different route for safety. The club issued a statement expressing sympathy for those affected.
Victims and their conditions
The injured include:
- A five-year-old girl in critical condition, requiring multiple surgeries.
- A 67-year-old man in critical condition.
- Another five-year-old girl, a two-year-old girl, and a 63-year-old woman, all in stable condition.
- Four adults aged 24 to 63, treated for varying injuries.
Official statements and political response
Newcastle Mayor Gavin Morris described the incident as an "absolute tragedy" that "needn’t have happened." Police Minister Yasmin Catley echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the avoidable nature of the event. Federal opposition leader Angus Taylor thanked emergency services for their rapid response, calling the incident "terrible" and "devastating" for the community.
Ongoing investigation and community impact
Police have not yet detailed the driver’s actions leading up to the crash, though early reports suggest the vehicle was "revving" before losing control. The incident has prompted community fundraising efforts, including a GoFundMe campaign to support the injured child and her mother, who also sustained serious injuries.
The investigation remains active, with authorities expected to provide further updates as details emerge.