Police say the child failed to stop for an oncoming car.
ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. — A 15-year-old child was airlifted from the scene of a crash in Nocatee Monday, according to St. Johns County Fire Rescue.
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office says they were riding an electric dirt bike near the intersection of Rialto Drive and Nocatee Village Drive.
The child did not stop for an oncoming car, and was hit by the car, SJSO said.
They were airlifted to the hospital with serious injuries.
The SJSO Traffic Unit is investigating the crash.
Greg Webb, who just relocated to the area a week prior and is a former lifeguard, recounted witnessing the accident while conversing with neighbors. Webb explained that he saw the young boy being hurled nearly 20 yards into a neighboring yard after crashing with a truck.
“He seemed to be in shock, and I prayed for him, trying to reassure him that help was on the way and encouraging him to stay calm,” Webb remarked. “I could hear him breathing and felt his pulse. It’s an experience you never want to go through.”
Webb observed that the teenager’s helmet appeared to have either been unfastened or dislodged during the incident. He hopes this event leads to new regulations regarding electric bikes, such as implementing age or speed restrictions, and enhancing enforcement to avoid future mishaps.
“We’re going to pray for him and hope he has a full recovery,” Webb said. “Maybe once he does, he could be an advocate for some of these laws and regulations, and encourage other kids to wear a helmet.”
