Police said this has impacted the planned route of the Knights’ grand final procession, which was diverted on an alternative route and has left Newcastle, which was confirmed by the Knights in a social media post.
New South Wales emergency services have responded to a car crashing in to Newcastle Knights fans as they waited to farewell the team bus as it departed for the NRL grand final.
“We apologise to anybody who was waiting and missed the boys, but public safety is our priority.”
Members of the public have been asked to safely disperse from the area and keep roadways clear.
The ABC has reported 10 people were injured during the crash, with a girl aged 5 and a 67-year-old man in a critical condition.
The eight other people remain in a stable condition and include a second 5-year-old girl, a 2-year-old girl, two women aged 31 and 63 and four men aged 48, 24, 25 and 57.
Emergency helicopters were seen responding to the incident.
The ABC has also reported 10 ambulances and three helicopters are treating a number of people at the scene.
Video shared of the incident appears to show a BMW after it has collided with the crowd, with a helicopter later flying in and emergency service vehicles surrounding the scene.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he has offered support to the NSW government.
“My thoughts are with everyone injured or involved in the horrible incident this morning in Newcastle,” Albanese wrote in a social media post.
“I want to acknowledge and thank emergency services and police for responding so quickly, and their ongoing work in treating the injured.
“Rugby league brings people together, and this should have been a weekend of excitement and pride for Newcastle fans.
“I have spoken to the NSW Premier Chris Minns, and offered our support.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns said his thoughts are with the families impacted by the incident.
“It’s heartbreaking to see fans who were sending off their grand final team involved in such a terrible incident,” he wrote in a social media post.
“My thoughts are with the families and friends of loved ones who have been involved or injured in the crash. I also want to thank emergency services including police and ambulance who are responding to this tragedy.
Fire engines, police and ambulances were seen at the incident.
“We’ve seen how this grand final has brought Newcastle and Hunter communities together, and I hope the whole community remains united as we continue to respond.
“As large numbers of fans and families make their way down to Sydney for the grand final please drive safely and take caution on roads.”
Meanwhile, Australian Rugby League Commission executive chairman Peter V’landys said he and the commission were “deeply saddened” by the incident.
“We’re currently working with police to understand the circumstances.,” V’landys said.
“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.”