Teen dies in e-bike crash in Melbourne’s north

A teenage boy has died in front of his friend after a fatal e-bike crash in Melbourne‘s north.

The 15-year-old was a passenger on an electric motorbike being ridden by his 17-year-old friend when it collided with two cars on Plenty Rd in South Morang, near Findon Rd, about 5.30pm on Wednesday.

Paramedics rushed to the scene and treated the teenager for critical injuries.

Despite their efforts, the 15-year-old boy could not be saved and was declared dead at the scene.

The 17-year-old rider was taken to hospital in a stable condition with non life-threatening injuries.

Police said the drivers of both cars involved in the crash stopped at the scene to help and are assisting police with their enquiries.

Vision from the crash site shows at least one helmet on the scene, however police are still investigating whether the 15-year-old victim was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or information, is urged to contact police.

The 15-year-old e-bike passenger suffered critical injuries and died at the scene.The 15-year-old e-bike passenger suffered critical injuries and died at the scene. Credit: 7NEWS

 

E-bike legislation introduced across Australia

The teenager’s death is the latest in an alarming string of e-bike accidents across the country, which have prompted crackdowns on the devices in multiple states.

From July 1, riders in Queensland will need to hold a valid learner’s permit or licence to use the devices, while parents who supply them to underage children could also face fines.

Meanwhile, the NSW state government has announced legislation that would grant police the power to seize and crush illegal e-bikes while also signalling a potential minimum age for riders.