Car Strikes Rugby Fans In Australia Leaving Ten Injured
A celebratory sports sendoff turned into a medical emergency after a vehicle struck spectators in New South Wales, leaving a child and an older adult critically injured.
Ten people suffered injuries on Saturday morning when a car drove into a crowd of rugby league supporters gathered in Newcastle, Australia. The spectators had assembled along the road to see off the Newcastle Knights team bus before the National Rugby League grand final.
The collision occurred near a roundabout on Newcastle Link Road in the suburb of Wallsend. Emergency services received calls about the crash at approximately 9:30 a.m. local time. Paramedics treated victims at the scene before taking them to John Hunter Hospital.
New South Wales police said two victims, a 5-year-old girl and a 67-year-old man, were in critical condition. Eight other spectators were listed in stable condition, including a 2-year-old girl and another 5-year-old girl. The adult patients ranged from 24 to 63 years old.
Officers arrested the driver, an 18-year-old man holding a provisional license, at the location. Authorities said initial findings indicated the incident was not related to terrorism.
Newcastle Mayor Gavin Morris said the young driver was a supporter who lost control after revving the car. Morris told national broadcasters that the driver was excited before the vehicle slid into the crowd. Witnesses reported hearing engine noise shortly before spectators were thrown into the air.
The incident disrupted travel and forced the closure of Newcastle Link Road in both directions. Rugby officials rerouted the team convoy away from the crash site while emergency personnel worked in the area. The club apologized to fans who missed the procession and stated that public safety was its priority.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said rugby league brings people together and expressed sympathy for everyone affected by the crash. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns also released a statement offering support to the victims and their families.
Investigators have taken the driver to a medical facility for mandatory drug and alcohol screening as police continue examining the site.
