The families of three teenagers who died when the car they were traveling in plunged into the River Wear have shared heartfelt tributes, remembering them for their kindness and "zest for life".
Sixteen-year-olds Luke Etheridge and Zara Shaw, along with 17-year-old Jackson Duke, died when the black Audi A3 they were in left the road near Wearmouth Bridge in Sunderland and entered the river. The incident occurred shortly before 13:30 BST on Tuesday.
Luke Etheridge's family described him as a caring individual and a devoted Sunderland football fan, whose absence leaves an eternal ache. "He always knew the most up-to-date Sunderland football news and shared it with us immediately. Sunderland will miss its number one fan," they stated in a tribute. They also shared that Luke loved spending time with friends and family, enjoying football, holidays, and time with their dog, Wilf.
Zara Shaw was remembered by her family as having a "zest for life" and an "infectious laugh and smile". They noted her strength, stating, "You had come into this world with a fight, and we know you left it doing the same." Her family expressed immense pride in her accomplishments and the lifelong friends she made.
Jackson Duke was also remembered as a polite, kind, and funny young man whose presence uplifted those around him.
All three teenagers were students at Sunderland College. A spokesperson for the college expressed that the news had "devastated" everyone within their community. Luke was described as a "charming, approachable and genuinely lovely lad" whose "kindness, enthusiasm and character" impacted everyone at the sixth form. Zara's "friendliness, warmth, kindness and beautiful smile made an instant impression," and she was always willing to support fellow students. The college also noted Jackson's positive impact.
Luke and Jackson were residents of Sunderland, while Zara hailed from Newbottle, a village approximately six miles from the city. The black Audi A3 was recovered from the water on Wednesday.