A car has crashed into a crowd of people waving goodbye to Newcastle Knights players as they head to Sydney for the NRL grand final.
Emergency services were called to Newcastle Link Rd in Wallsend after receiving reports of a car crashing into pedestrians about 9.30am on Saturday.
Paramedics confirmed 10 ambulance crews and three helicopters had been sent to the scene and that multiple people had been injured.
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The extent of their injuries are yet to be confirmed as the incident is still evolving.
Police have confirmed the alleged driver of the car was arrested in the scene.
Local MP Dan Repacholi said the major road has been closed in both directions to allow for helicopters to land.
“Seven people including children have been seriously injured,” he said in a post to social media.
Images from the scene show hundreds of people lining the street to cheer on their team. Instead, they became witnesses to the incident.
It is a horrible situation and has immediately cast a pall over Newcastle’s extraordinary 2026 season.
The city has been in the grip of finals fever, with the Knights, last year’s wooden spooners, making it all the way to the decider this year under new coach Justin Holbrook.
The Knights last won a premiership 25 years ago in 2001. Since then there’s been nothing but heartache for the club’s loyal, long-suffering fans … and five wooden spoons.
“Police acknowledge many loyal supporters may have missed the opportunity to see the team and show their support,” police said.
“Members of the public are asked to safely disperse from the area and keep roadways clear to assist emergency services and traffic management efforts.
“Police thank the community for their patience, cooperation and assistance.”
Premier describes crash as ‘heartbreaking’
NSW Premier Chris Minns said it is “heartbreaking to see fans who were sending off their grand final team involved in such a terrible incident”.
“My thoughts are with the families and friends of loved ones who have been involved or injured in the crash,” Minns said in a statement.
“I also want to thank emergency services including police and ambulance who are responding to this tragedy.
“We’ve seen how this grand final has brought Newcastle together and I hope the whole community remains united as we continue to respond.”
He urged fans and families driving to Sydney for the grand final to “drive safely and take caution on roads”.
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