Several NRL fans were injured after being struck by a car while lining Newcastle Link Road to see the Newcastle Knights team bus on Saturday morning.
Emergency services were called to the Transfield Drive roundabout near Wallsend at about 9.30am after reports that a vehicle had hit multiple people in a crowd.
Several people were treated at the scene, while NSW Ambulance confirmed that multiple casualties were taken to John Hunter Hospital. The driver was arrested at the scene.
Newcastle Link Road was closed in both directions and was expected to remain shut for some time while police inquiries continued. Members of the public were asked to disperse safely and keep the road clear for emergency services and traffic management.
The incident disrupted the planned route for the Newcastle Knights’ grand final procession. The team bus was diverted via an alternative route before leaving Newcastle ahead of Sunday’s NRL decider in Sydney.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said it was heartbreaking that fans seeing off their team had been involved in a serious crash.
“My thoughts are with the families and friends of loved ones who have been involved or injured in the crash,” he said in a statement.
“We’ve seen how this grand final has brought Newcastle together, and I hope the whole community remains united as we continue to respond.”
Mr Minns thanked emergency services responding to the incident and urged people to drive safely over the grand final weekend.
The Knights’ progress to Sunday’s match had prompted strong support across Newcastle, with fans waiting in the rain for the team’s return from Sydney after a 22-14 qualifying victory over Penrith.
Thousands also attended training during the week, while some supporters painted their homes in the team’s colours. A large crowd had gathered on Newcastle’s streets on Saturday morning to farewell the players.
