Tributes Paid to Teenagers Killed in River Wear Car Plunge

The families of three teenagers who died when a car plunged into the River Wear have paid tribute to their loved ones. Zara Shaw, 16, Jackson Duke, 17, and Luke Etheridge, 16, were killed on Tuesday afternoon after the black Audi A3 entered the water near Wearmouth Bridge in Sunderland.

A 17-year-old boy, the fourth occupant of the vehicle, managed to get to safety and was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. Northumbria Police stated that inquiries are ongoing to determine who was driving at the time of the incident. The arrested teenager has since been bailed.

Zara's family described her as a 'beautiful' daughter with 'a zest for life'. In a statement, they said: "You came into this world with a fight, and we know you left it doing the same. You had a zest for life and life loved you." They expressed gratitude to emergency services for their care and support during their "worst time of our lives."

Luke Etheridge, 16, also died in the incident after the black Audi A3 went into the water while carrying four teenagers.

Jackson Duke, 17, was the third teenager killed.

Sunderland College, which all three teenagers attended, released a statement expressing deep sadness and offering condolences to their families and friends. Christ's College, where Zara was a former pupil, described her as a "kind and loyal" student.

Chief Superintendent Scott Cowie of Northumbria Police acknowledged the "unimaginable agony and heartbreak" experienced by the families, stating that the victims "had their whole futures ahead of them and will be hugely missed." He urged the public not to speculate about the incident to avoid causing further distress to the families.

Police are appealing for information, including CCTV or dashcam footage, related to the incident. Anyone with information can contact Northumbria Police via direct message on social media, their website, or by calling 101, quoting reference number NP-20260929-0589.