Family pays tribute to Zara Shaw after River Wear deaths

Zara Shaw, 16, died alongside Jackson Duke, 17, and Luke Etheridge, 16, after the car they were travelling in entered the River Wear near Panns Bank in Sunderland on Tuesday, September 29. Shaw’s family has issued a tribute, while police continue to investigate how the car entered the water and who was driving. The family described Shaw as having a “zest for life” and thanked people for their kindness and support. In a statement, they recalled her dance videos, laugh and smile, and said she had been a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, girlfriend and friend. They also asked for privacy as they grieve. The family thanked police liaison officers and emergency services for the care they showed Shaw. They said they were grateful she was treated with care and not left alone. Christ’s College, which Shaw attended from the age of four until this summer, described her as a kind and loyal student and said support was available to staff, pupils and families affected by the deaths. Northumbria Police said a black Audi A3 left the road at Panns Bank and entered the river. A 17-year-old occupant escaped with non-serious injuries, police said.