The father of a 17-year-old boy killed in an e-bike crash on the Gold Coast has spoken out after the teenage driver was sentenced, urging better regulation of the devices. Hudson Gagg died in September 2025 when the e-bike he was a passenger on collided with a car on Tallebudgera Creek Road.
The 17-year-old driver, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to six charges, including driving without due care and attention causing death, driving unlicensed, and driving with a relevant drug present in his blood. He was sentenced in Southport Children's Court to nine months' probation and a nine-month licence disqualification.
Speaking outside court, Jason Gagg described his son as a jovial 'boofhead with a big smile' who loved his mates. He called for mandatory licensing and registration for e-bikes, noting that the lack of insurance left his family without financial support. 'At the moment, there wasn't anything there... so that's been tough,' he said.
The court heard the bike was classed as a motor vehicle due to its power output and was unregistered and uninsured. Police prosecutor Aaron Lockwood submitted five victim impact statements, calling the case 'devastating' for the close-knit community. Defence lawyer Daniel McShane said the crash had haunted the offender, who suffered severe injuries and now fears getting into any vehicle.
Magistrate Mark Bamberry imposed the sentence, stating that deterrence was not his primary focus. Jason Gagg said no penalty would bring Hudson back but hoped for stronger regulation. New e-bike laws are set to take effect in Queensland from July 1.
