Boy arrested after teens' River Wear deaths released on bail

A 17-year-old boy who was arrested after three teenagers died when a car entered the River Wear in Sunderland has been released on bail.

Sixteen-year-olds Luke Etheridge and Zara Shaw and 17-year-old Jackson Duke died after an Audi A3 came off the road at Panns Bank, near Wearmouth Bridge, and entered the river just before 13:30 BST on Tuesday.

The 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Northumbria Police has now confirmed he has been released on bail pending further inquiries.

The teenager had managed to reach safety and suffered non-serious injuries.

The investigation into the circumstances leading to the car entering the water continues.

Northumbria Police said on Wednesday no other vehicles were believed to have been involved.

Ch Supt Scott Cowie, area commander for Sunderland, said: "The last 24 hours have brought unimaginable agony and heartbreak for the loved ones of Luke, Jackson and Zara.

"All three had their whole futures ahead of them and will be hugely missed.

"We also recognise the impact that this tragedy has had upon the people of Sunderland and further afield, and know that you will continue to be there for one another."

On Wednesday, a spokesperson for Sunderland College said they were "deeply saddened" by the deaths of three of their students.

"This is a heartbreaking loss for our college community, and the wider city of Sunderland," a statement published on Facebook said.

Teens who died in car that entered river named

College 'deeply saddened' by pupils' river deaths

Three teenagers die as car ends up in river