An 18-year-old driver faces multiple charges after the incident during a send-off for the NRL Grand Final
Category: Sports
An 18-year-old man has been charged by New South Wales Police after his vehicle allegedly struck ten people during a parade of fans for the Newcastle Knights rugby league team. The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 a.m. local time on Saturday, October 3, near Wallsend, a suburb of Newcastle, New South Wales, as thousands gathered to wish the team well ahead of their National Rugby League (NRL) Grand Final match against the Sydney Roosters.
Among the injured are a five-year-old girl who is currently in a stable condition after being placed in an induced coma due to severe injuries, and a 67-year-old man whose condition has transitioned from being critically ill to serious but stable. A two-year-old girl and another five-year-old girl were also among those hit, with their conditions reported as stable.
Witnesses reported seeing the driver, identified as Indika Bambrick Samarasinghe, losing control of the vehicle before it veered into the crowd. The police stated that initial inquiries indicate the incident is not believed to be terror-related. “We are deeply saddened by the incident near Wallsend,” said NRL executive chairman Peter V’landys AM. “Our thoughts are very much with those injured and anyone impacted by these events.”
Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, with paramedics treating victims before transporting them to John Hunter Hospital. Six individuals remain hospitalized, with two in serious condition and four others stable. The victims include a mix of ages, from children to elderly adults, highlighting the broad impact of the tragedy on the community.
Following the crash, Samarasinghe was taken to the hospital for mandatory testing and later charged with nine offenses, including three counts of dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm, three counts of negligent driving, and three counts of causing bodily harm by misconduct. He appeared in court on Sunday, October 4, where he did not apply for bail and was formally refused release. The maximum penalty for the most serious charge is seven years in prison. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 15.
Witness Chris Clancy, who was injured in the incident, described the scene as chaotic. “We were there at the roundabout having fun – cars going past, beeping their horns, people waving,” he recounted. “The next thing, this car stops at the roundabout and then he just floored it on the wet ground, lost it. It happened in seconds, but when you stand there, seeing the car coming at you, I honestly thought I was going to die.” Clancy suffered multiple injuries, including a broken collarbone and fractures in his ribs and spine.
The Newcastle community has rallied together in the aftermath of this tragic event, with various fundraisers initiated to support the victims and their families. One notable story is that of Dave Martin, a grandfather who was injured after attempting to shield his two granddaughters from the oncoming vehicle. Martin sustained multiple fractures in both legs and underwent extensive surgery but is now recovering.
“Newcastle is a strong community,” said Knights CEO Peter Parr, emphasizing the need for compassion and support in these trying times. “We have seen that strength throughout this week, and today we need to draw on it again with compassion, care and support for those who need it most.”
In the aftermath of the crash, the Knights’ team bus, which was supposed to be celebrated by fans, was diverted from its planned route. The players were informed of the incident as they traveled to Sydney. “Due to a major incident, the team bus has been diverted from the planned route,” a Knights statement read. “We apologize to anybody who was waiting and missed the boys, but public safety is our priority.”
NSW Police are conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, with Assistant Commissioner David Waddell confirming that the driver was reported to be driving erratically prior to the incident. “This should be a celebration this weekend,” he noted, expressing concern over the preventable nature of the tragedy. “A split-second decision can change so many people’s lives, and that is what has happened here today in our town.”
As the investigation continues, the local government and community leaders are calling for increased awareness around road safety, especially during large public events. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers present even in celebratory settings, and the need for caution and responsibility among drivers, particularly those who are newly licensed.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Knights captain Kalyn Ponga expressed his support for those affected, stating, “Our hearts are with everyone affected in Wallsend this morning. We’re thinking of you, your families and everyone in our Newcastle community. Sending our love and support.”
The Newcastle Knights, who have experienced a remarkable season, now face this somber reality as they prepare for their Grand Final match. The community, known for its resilience, will undoubtedly come together to support each other and the victims of this tragic event.