Police investigating after bodies of elderly man and woman found seated in van in Richmond River at Wardell near Ballina

Police are investigating how the bodies of two people came to be found seated in a van at the bottom of the Richmond River in northern NSW. Here’s what we know.

An elderly couple have perished after their van plunged into the Richmond River at Wardell in northern NSW. Picture: Facebook/Joanne Sawtell

Police have launched an investigation after the bodies of an elderly man and woman were found seated in a van in the Richmond River at Wardell in the Ballina Shire.

The deceased believed to be aged in their 70s were found by NSW Police divers about 9.30am on Wednesday – however, scarce information was released publicly at the time.

Emergency services were called to River Dr, East Wardell about 12.40pm on Tuesday, following reports the vehicle plunged into the river.

Richmond Police District is investigating. Pictured is Ballina Police Station. Picture: Savannah Pocock

Richmond Police District was assisted by Marine Area Command, Marine Rescue NSW and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

“ … police divers located the vehicle submerged in the river, and found two bodies seated within the van,” a police statement read.

“Richmond Police have commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident, and urge anyone with information to come forward.”

A report will be prepared for the Coroner

More information has been sought into the horrific discovery.

Meanwhile, Northern Rivers residents have taken to social media to pay their respects.

“It’s a shocking tragedy May they rest in peace sending condolences to their loved ones,” one woman wrote.

Another woman wrote: “Sincere love and sympathy to the family.”

Know more? Phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Originally published as Police investigating after bodies of elderly man and woman found seated in van in Richmond River at Wardell near Ballina