The Major Crash Unit and Katherine Detectives are investigating the circumstances which led to the death of two women in Katherine overnight.

Around 7 last night, a vehicle drove into a group of people who were sitting in the front yard of a residence.

Family members have told Katherine Times it was a tragic accident.

Police, St John Ambulance, and Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service attended and located the two women trapped under the vehicle.

The two women were declared deceased at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle was taken into police custody and is assisting police with their enquiries.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Meanwhile, police had been searching for a woman who was last seen in the Katherine River.

The 38-year-old female ran into the Katherine River when she sighted police officers after they responded to an incident around 11 this morning.

Katherine officers negotiated with the female in an attempt to get her to exit the river however she refused.

The female was sighted travelling downstream before police lost sight of her.

A search and rescue operation is underway.

She has now been found safe and well.

The matter is being treated as a serious custody incident.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.