Ponga’s heartfelt message after shocking Newcastle road incident
Updated . First published at
Knights superstar Kalyn Ponga has shared a heartfelt message with the Newcastle community after a crowd of NRL supporters were hit by a car in an incident on the eve of the NRL grand final.
An 18-year-old P-plater was charged on Saturday with multiple offences after 10 people, including three children, were allegedly hit by the BMW while lining Newcastle Link Road to farewell the Knights’ team bus about 9.30am.
Knights superstar Kalyn Ponga speaking on Thursday. Ayush Kumar/Getty Images
Several injured people remain at John Hunter Hospital, with three people now discharged.
A five-year-old girl remains in a critical but stable condition after suffering head injuries and broken bones. Her mother has a broken leg.
A 67-year-old man is now in a serious but stable condition after being rushed to hospital in a critical condition.
“Our hearts are with everyone affected in Wallsend this morning,” Ponga wrote in a message on Instagram accompanied by red and blue love hearts.
“We’re thinking of you, your families and everyone in our Newcastle community.
“Sending our love and support.”
Newcastle Link Road was shut in both directions between Lake Road and Minmi Road at Wallsend following the incident but reopened in the afternoon.
The Knights were subsequently re-routed as the team bus headed to Sydney for Sunday night’s grand final.
The incident has rocked the rugby league world as the Knights and Roosters prepare to square off at Accor Stadium.
“We are deeply saddened by the incident near Wallsend,” ARL Commission executive chairman Peter V’landys said in a statement.
"We're currently working with police to understand the circumstances.
"Our thoughts are very much with those injured and anyone impacted by these events, not to mention the entire Knights community who have come together in jubilation to support their team."
The Knights said in a statement: “The Newcastle Knights are aware of the traffic incident that occurred this morning in Wallsend.
“Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by the incident, including those at the scene and their families.
“As this is a matter for NSW Police, the club will not be making any further comment at this time.”
