Multiple people injured as car hits crowd at Knights grand final farewell in Newcastle
In short:
Nine people have been injured after a car hit a crowd of Newcastle Knights supporters this morning.
The crowd had gathered as part of a pre-grand final farewell to the team at Wallsend.
NSW Police said the driver has been arrested at the scene and all those injured have been taken to hospital.
Two people are in a critical condition and seven others have been injured after a car ploughed into a crowd gathered for the Newcastle Knights grand final procession.
NSW Police arrested the driver of the car at the scene shortly after the crash on Newcastle Link Road, at Wallsend in Newcastle's west, about 9:30am.
NSW Ambulance said one person was in a critical condition, another was critical but stable, while seven others were in a stable condition and being treated for their injuries.
Police said there was a large emergency services response to the crash. (ABC News)
The ages of those injured was not known and all nine patients were taken to John Hunter Hospital.
NSW Police said Newcastle Link Road was closed in both directions while investigations continued.
"Members of the public are asked to safely disperse from the area and keep roadways clear to assist emergency services and traffic management efforts," NSW Police said in a statement.
One of several emergency services helicopters arriving on scene nearby at Walllsend. (ABC News: Piper Duffy)
The Knights said the team's "thoughts are with everyone impacted by the incident, including those at the scene and their families".
"Due to a major incident, the team bus has been diverted from the planned route," the in a social media post.
"We apologise to anybody who was waiting and missed the boys, but public safety is our priority."
Knights supporters gathered on an oval where emergency services were transporting patients. (ABC News: Piper Duffy)
NSW Premier Chris Minns said the incident was "heartbreaking".
"It's heartbreaking to see fans who were sending off their grand final team involved in such a terrible incident," he said.
"My thoughts are with the families and friends of loved ones who have been involved or injured in the crash.
"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."