Ten Injured After Car Strikes Newcastle Knights Fans

An 18-year-old male P-plater has been arrested following a collision in Wallsend, Newcastle, that left ten people injured. The incident occurred at approximately 9.30am on Saturday, October 3, 2026, as fans had gathered along the roadside to cheer on the Newcastle Knights team bus ahead of Sunday’s NRL grand final.

What happened in Newcastle?

Police reported that a car struck a group of ten people waiting on the edge of the highway near a roundabout on Newcastle Link. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene, and all ten injured individuals were transported to John Hunter Hospital for treatment.

According to reports, two individuals—a 5-year-old girl and a 67-year-old man—remain in critical condition. The other eight people injured, which include two young girls aged two and five, four men aged 24, 25, 48, and 57, and two women aged 31 and 63, are currently in stable condition.

Why is the area restricted?

The collision disrupted the planned route for the Newcastle Knights team bus procession. NSW Police have requested that members of the public disperse from the area to ensure roadways remain clear for ongoing emergency responses and traffic management. Authorities acknowledged that many supporters may have missed their opportunity to farewell the team due to these circumstances.

What happens next?

The 18-year-old driver is in police custody, and an investigation into the circumstances of the crash is currently underway. Police have not released further information regarding potential charges or the specific cause of the incident at this time. Officials continue to manage the scene and have asked for public cooperation in the affected area of Wallsend.