Vehicle strikes crowd gathered for Knights grand final send-off in Newcastle
A car crashed into a crowd waiting to farewell the Newcastle Knights team bus ahead of the NRL grand final, injuring several people; the driver was arrested at the scene.
A vehicle struck a crowd of people on Saturday morning in Newcastle, Australia, as fans gathered to send off the Knights rugby league team bus ahead of the NRL grand final.
New South Wales police said emergency services were called around 9.30am to Newcastle Link Road at the Transfield Drive roundabout in Wallsend after reports that a vehicle had hit multiple people in the crowd. The driver was arrested at the scene.
Police said several people were injured and were receiving treatment on site, though no further details on the number or severity of injuries were given.
Road closures disrupt send-off
The incident forced the closure of Newcastle Link Road in both directions, prompting organisers to divert the Knights' grand final procession. The club confirmed the route change in an Instagram post, apologising to supporters who may have missed the chance to see the team off and stressing that public safety was the priority.
Police urged fans in the area to disperse safely, acknowledging that many loyal supporters would have missed the opportunity to see the team. Authorities asked the public to keep roadways clear so emergency services and traffic management could continue their work, and thanked the community for its cooperation.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said his thoughts were with the families and friends of those injured, calling the incident heartbreaking given fans had gathered to support their team ahead of the grand final. He expressed hope the community would remain united as the response continued. The NSW ambulance service has also been contacted for further comment.
