Injured footy fans treated as crash driver denied bail

A young girl in Newcastle faces a lengthy recovery, as other Newcastle Knights supporters were treated in hospital for injuries sustained when a car collided with their group near a roundabout. The driver, 18-year-old P-plater Indika Bambrick Samarasinghe, was denied bail on Sunday following his charge over the incident that occurred on Saturday.

Among the injured was a five-year-old girl who was in critical condition, previously placed in an induced coma with severe injuries. Other victims included a four-year-old boy, four individuals in stable condition, and four who were discharged from the hospital. The incident happened outside Newcastle, near a roundabout, as the Knights prepared to travel to Sydney for the NRL grand final.

Multiple fundraisers have been launched to support the victims, with over $35,000 raised for the injured girl and her mother. Samarasinghe's aunt shared her family's concerns, stating that both mother and child face a difficult road ahead with ongoing surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and recovery.

Witness Chris Clancy described the scene as a carnival atmosphere with cars beeping horns and people waving, but then the car stopped and sped away on a wet road, losing control. Clancy suffered multiple fractures, including in his ribs, spine, foot, and collarbone.

Samarasinghe was charged with nine offenses, including dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm, negligent driving, and causing bodily harm by misconduct. He did not seek bail during a court appearance and was formally refused bail. The most serious charge carries a maximum seven-year prison sentence. Samarasinghe will next appear in court on October 15.

Investigators did not believe the incident was intentional but declined to comment on reports of reckless driving. Dave Martin, 67, was also injured while trying to protect his grandchildren, suffering multiple leg fractures and undergoing extensive surgery.

Newcastle Knights CEO Peter Parr expressed deep concern for those affected, emphasizing the community's strength and urging compassion, care, and support for those in need. NSW Police have instructed the public not to gather on major motorways, as no fan activities are planned for Sunday.