Ten people were injured Saturday morning after a car lost control and struck a crowd gathered in Newcastle, Australia, local authorities said. The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. near the side of the road where residents had assembled for an official send-off event for the Newcastle Knights rugby league team ahead of the National Rugby League grand final.

New South Wales Assistant Police Commissioner David Waddell told reporters that the driver appeared to be operating the vehicle erratically before crashing into the group. The crowd had come together to support the Newcastle Knights as they prepared to travel to Sydney for the Sunday night championship game.

Among those injured were two young children, aged five and two, as well as a 67-year-old man. The man and one of the five-year-old girls were admitted to hospital in critical condition, while the other eight victims sustained injuries described as non-life-threatening. Earlier reports from emergency services initially indicated nine people had been hurt.

The vehicle’s driver, an 18-year-old man, was apprehended at the scene and taken to hospital for mandatory drug and alcohol testing. Police indicated that charges would likely be filed against him later on Saturday.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a statement via social media expressing sympathy, noting that the weekend, which should have been marked by excitement and pride, was instead overshadowed by the incident in Newcastle. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.