Sunderland, England – On Tuesday 29 September 2026, just before 1:30pm BST, a black Audi A3 came off the road at Panns Bank near Wearmouth Bridge in Sunderland and entered the River Wear.
Four teenagers were in the vehicle. One 17-year-old boy managed to reach safety. He sustained non-serious injuries, was taken to hospital, and has since been arrested in connection with the incident. He remains in police custody.
The bodies of two teenage boys and one teenage girl were later recovered from the water. Their next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.
Northumbria Police confirmed that no other vehicles are believed to have been involved. The investigation is at an early stage.
A major multi-agency response took place, involving Northumbria Police, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, North East Ambulance Service, RNLI lifeboats, HM Coastguard, and an air ambulance.
Chief Superintendent Scott Cowie, Area Commander for Sunderland, described it as “a truly tragic incident” and said thoughts are with the families, friends, and all those affected.
The public has been asked to avoid the area and not to speculate while enquiries continue.
This information is based on official statements from Northumbria Police and reports from BBC News and other local outlets.