The heartbroken family of a “funny and handsome” teenager who tragically died when an Audi entered the River Wear have paid tribute to him.
Luke Etheridge, 16, from the Sunderland area, died after the black Audi A3 car he was in entered the River Wear on Tuesday (September 29) at around 1.30pm.
Jackson Duke, 17, Luke Etheridge and Zara Shaw, both 16, were in the car and died in the crash.
Jackson Duke, 17, and Luke Etheridge and Zara Shaw, both aged 16, were all in the car at that time. (Image: NORTHUMBRIA POLICE)
In a statement, Luke’s family have paid tribute to their "funny and handsome" boy who loved his dog Wilf and was “football mad”.
They said: “Our beautiful boy Luke was loving, kind, caring, funny and handsome. He was so friendly and polite and loved our dog Wilf, shopping for clothes, watching and playing football.
“He always knew the most up to date Sunderland football news and shared it with us immediately. Sunderland will miss its number one fan.
“Luke loved spending time with all his friends and family. As a family we did everything together from football to holidays, shopping trips and spending time with Wilf our dog.
“Luke is our life, we miss him so bad. Our hearts will ache forever.
“Thanks to all family and friends, we love you.
“Thanks so much to our family liaison officers from Northumbria Police and all of the emergency services involved in helping our boy.”
Scene of the incident (Image: NORTH NEWS)
A coastguard helicopter and air ambulance were also involved in the operation.
Following the tragedy, Sunderland College said it was "deeply saddened" and is offering support to staff and students.
A spokesperson said: "We are deeply saddened to hear three students from our Bede Campus tragically lost their lives yesterday afternoon. This is a heartbreaking loss for our college community, and the wider city of Sunderland.
"Everyone at Sunderland College extends our heartfelt thoughts and deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.
Scene of the incident (Image: NORTH NEWS)
"We also pay tribute to the emergency services and all those who responded at the scene.
"Support is available to any students or our colleagues who may be affected by this tragedy and ask that the privacy of the families of those involved is respected."
Scene of the incident (Image: NORTH NEWS)
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Enquiries remain ongoing to establish who was the driver of the car at the time.
Police want anyone with information or CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.
Contact Northumbria Police with information, quoting reference NP-20260929-0589.