Teenagers Face Charges After Dangerous E-Bike Ride in Brisbane
Two teenagers have been formally charged by police following a chaotic and reckless e-bike ride that culminated in a serious crash within a major city tunnel in Brisbane. The incident, which unfolded on January 23, involved a group of approximately 20 young riders on e-bikes and e-scooters, weaving through busy urban areas before the dangerous stunt led to an accident.
Details of the Incident and Police Response
A video recorded by one of the participants captured the group riding through Brisbane's central business district and inner suburbs, showcasing behavior that police allege included weaving through traffic, narrowly avoiding pedestrians, riding on the wrong side of the road, and performing burnouts. The ride ended abruptly when a 16-year-old boy crashed in the Clem7 tunnel at Kangaroo Point, resulting in minor injuries that required hospital treatment.
In response to the incident, police executed search warrants at two locations. On January 29, officers searched a home in Herston, seizing a non-compliant e-bike and a mobile phone. A second search on February 1 at a residence on Wexford Street in Kenmore Hills led to the seizure of another e-bike. These actions are part of an ongoing investigation into juvenile riders engaging in unsafe practices.
Charges and Legal Implications
The 15-year-old boy from Herston, who allegedly filmed and posted the ride online, faces multiple charges under Queensland's "post and boast" laws, which target the publication of material promoting illegal activities. Additionally, he has been charged with unlicensed driving, driving an unregistered vehicle, and driving an uninsured vehicle.
The 16-year-old involved in the tunnel crash has been charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, along with similar offences related to unlicensed driving and vehicle registration and insurance. Both teenagers will be dealt with under the Youth Justice Act, with the 16-year-old potentially facing up to three years in prison under Queensland's strict youth justice laws.
Police Warning and E-Bike Regulations
North Brisbane District Inspector Matt Blunn emphasized the seriousness of the offences, stating that the recent bike seizures send a strong message to both parents and riders. He highlighted the obligation of guardians and riders to ensure that any e-mobility device used in public is compliant with the law and operated safely.
Inspector Blunn expressed deep concern over instances where devices, some classified as unregistered electric motorcycles, are driven on roads by juveniles, particularly on major arterial routes like tunnels. He warned that ignorance is not an excuse for road safety violations and assured that police will continue to enforce, engage, and educate on e-mobility device safety.
Under Queensland law, e-bikes used in public must be predominantly pedal-powered, with electric motors limited to 250 watts of assistance and cutting out at speeds of 25km/h. Authorities are actively recovering alleged illegal e-bikes as part of their investigations into dangerous city rides, underscoring the commitment to road safety and legal compliance.
