Two teenage boys and a teenage girl who died when a car they were in ended up in the River Wear have been named by police.

Northumbria Police said a black Audi A3 came off the road at Panns Bank near Wearmouth Bridge, in Sunderland, and went in the water just before 13:30 BST on Tuesday. Four people were in the car at the time.

The three who died have been named as Jackson Duke, 17, Luke Etheridge and Zara Shaw, both 16.

A 17-year-old boy who managed to reach safety has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, the force said.

The force said the investigation into the circumstances leading up to the car entering the water, including who was driving, were ongoing.

Jackson and Luke were from Sunderland, while Zara was from Houghton-le-Spring, a town about seven miles (11km) from the city.

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.”

Earlier, a spokesperson for Sunderland College said they were “deeply saddened” by the deaths of three of their students and offered condolences to their families and friends.

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

Cowie asked the public not to speculate on the circumstances.

“In doing so, please be mindful of the potential impact such commentary could have on the families of those involved in this incident,” he said.

The force has asked anyone with information to get in touch.

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