Two teens facing charges after police chase involving electric dirt bikes

Two teenagers are facing criminal charges after evading police and the Highway Safety Council (HAWCS) in a chase early Tuesday morning in southwest Calgary. The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. in the community of Coach Hill when the teens were allegedly performing stunts and operating their electric dirt bikes dangerously. Upon being approached by officers, the trio fled, evading both police and HAWCS through residential neighborhoods.

As a result, two riders were arrested and charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle and flight from police, under the Criminal Code of Canada. The whereabouts of the third teenager remain unknown. Acting Superintendent Rob Patterson of the Calgary Police Traffic Division stated that authorities are concerned about individuals fleeing from police, noting that these electric dirt bikes can reach incredible speeds.

It is illegal to ride these bikes on public roads, sidewalks, pathways, and parks. The Evanston Creekside Community Association president, Mike Stiles, expressed concern over the issue in their community, stating that kids have been riding these bikes at Evanston Park since October, causing havoc and endangering pedestrians, particularly young children.

Bobby Kooner, the community association safety director, emphasized the frequent incidents where these bikes nearly strike individuals or toddlers at the park or nearby daycare. He called for education efforts targeting parents who unknowingly purchase these bikes, urging the city to create a designated area for safe riding. Until such a measure is implemented, Kooner supports increased enforcement of the law.

Meanwhile, the province of Alberta is considering amendments to the Traffic Safety Act to create a modernized and safer transportation system that accommodates personal micromobility devices like e-Scooters, pending municipal approval.