E-scooter rider clocked at 129 km/h in Vienna, flees police

Vienna police apprehended a 20-year-old e-scooter rider who was allegedly traveling at an astonishing speed of 129 km/h on the Donauinsel, a popular recreational area. The incident highlights a growing concern over the misuse and excessive speeds of e-scooters in the city.

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The rider attempted to flee from the police, showing no regard for pedestrians, who could only save themselves by jumping aside.

The pursuit began when officers noticed two e-scooters traveling at high speeds. As police approached, the riders attempted to flee, reaching speeds of up to 80 km/h and showing disregard for pedestrians. Witnesses reported that people on the path had to jump aside to avoid being hit.

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At least 129 km/h was determined on the roller tester, which the vehicle could achieve. It would likely have gone even faster.

One rider managed to escape, but the 20-year-old suspect's scooter became unstable at high speed, nearly causing him to crash. This provided officers with an opportunity to stop him. A subsequent test on a roller dynamometer indicated the scooter could reach at least 129 km/h, far beyond its design capabilities for safe operation.

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The 20-year-old was not fit to ride, as determined by a medical examiner. This was due, among other things, to his extreme fatigue.

Authorities determined the rider was unfit to operate the vehicle, citing extreme fatigue. He now faces multiple charges, including endangering physical safety. The scooter was seized, and police are searching for the second rider. In a separate operation targeting e-scooter violations, police issued 145 fines and filed 99 charges, with some scooters tested reaching speeds up to 56 km/h.

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There were multiple charges against him and a report to the public prosecutor's office for suspected endangerment of physical safety.