Car Hits Knights Crowd
An 18-year-old driver was arrested on Saturday morning after crashing into a crowd of Newcastle Knights supporters in Newcastle, injuring ten people. New South Wales Police reported that two of the injured, a five-year-old girl and a 67-year-old man, are in critical condition, while the remaining eight are stable. Assistant Police Commissioner David Waddell indicated that the driver was driving “erratically” prior to losing control of the vehicle. The incident is not believed to be terror-related, and an investigation is underway.
Bail Refused, Charges
The driver, Indika Bambrick Samarasinghe, has been charged with multiple offenses, including three counts of dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm and three counts of negligent driving occasioning grievous bodily harm. He appeared in bail court on Sunday, where bail was refused. Waddell noted that the driver had two passengers at the time of the crash, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his thoughts for everyone affected by the incident.
Community Impact and Response
Newcastle Lord Mayor Gavin Morris stated that the driver was present for celebrations and was reportedly revving his car before the crash. The Newcastle Knights organization expressed their concern for all those impacted and diverted their team bus from the original route. Meanwhile, NSW Police closed Newcastle Link Road in both directions as investigations continue. Witnesses described hearing screams for help as the BMW approached the crowd.
