Car crashes into Newcastle Knights fans farewelling team before grand final

A car has crashed into a crowd of Newcastle Knights fans injuring several, reportedly including a child, as they waited to farewell the team bus before the NRL grand final.

New South Wales police said emergency services were called to Newcastle Link Rd at the Transfield Drive roundabout near Wallsend in the west of Newcastle.

Officers attached to Newcastle City Police District are at the scene, being assisted by Traffic and Highway Patrol Command officers and NSW Ambulance paramedics.

Police said several people have been injured and are receiving treatment at the scene, while the driver of the vehicle has been arrested.

Newcastle Link Rd has been closed in both directions and is expected to remain that way while inquiries continue.

Police said this has impacted the planned route of the Knights’ grand final procession, which was diverted on an alternative route and has left Newcastle, which was confirmed by the Knights in a social media post.

“We apologise to anybody who was waiting and missed the boys, but public safety is our priority.”

Members of the public have been asked to safely disperse from the area and keep roadways clear.

Nine has reported two people are in a serious condition and two are critical, including a child.

The ABC has reported 10 ambulances and three helicopters are treating a number of people at the scene.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said his thoughts are with the families impacted by the incident.

“It’s heartbreaking to see fans who were sending off their grand final team involved in such a terrible incident,” he wrote in a social media post.

“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 and Hunter communities together, and I hope the whole community remains united as we continue to respond.

“As large numbers of fans and families make their way down to Sydney for the grand final please drive safely and take caution on roads.”