At least nine people were reportedly injured after a car crashed into a crowd in Newcastle, Australia. The
incident happened as large numbers of people gathered on the city’s streets to farewell the Newcastle Knights rugby league team.
The Newcastle Knights are preparing to play in Sunday’s National Rugby League grand final in Sydney. The crash disrupted what was expected to be a major celebration for the team and its supporters. Two of the injured people were reportedly in critical condition.
Police arrested the driver at the scene in Wallsend, a suburb of Newcastle located about 110 km (68 miles) north of Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, Reuters reported.
A spokesperson for New South Wales Ambulance told Reuters that two injured people were taken to hospital in critical condition. Emergency services responded to the scene and began treating those affected.
Driver Arrested After Car Crashes Into Crowd
Newcastle Mayor Gavin Morris said early information indicated that the driver may have lost control of the vehicle after apparently revving the engine. Morris made the comments during a televised interview. Police have launched an investigation to establish exactly what happened and why the vehicle entered the crowd.
Authorities are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash. Further details about the driver and the incident are expected as the investigation progresses.
Albanese Offers Support to Those Injured
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences following the crash. He offered his support to those who were injured and others affected by the incident. Albanese also praised emergency workers and police for their quick response and ongoing efforts to help the injured.
"My thoughts are with everyone injured or involved in the horrible incident this morning in Newcastle. I want to acknowledge and thank emergency services and police for responding so quickly, and their ongoing work in treating the injured. Rugby league brings people together, and this should have been a weekend of excitement and pride for Newcastle fans. I have spoken to the NSW Premier Chris Minns, and offered our support," Albanese said.
The crash came as Newcastle prepared for a major weekend of rugby league celebrations. The Newcastle Knights’ appearance in the NRL grand final had brought supporters together across the city.
