Two Teens Charged After Electric Dirt Bike Police Chase in Calgary

Calgary police have charged two teenagers with dangerous operation of a vehicle and flight from police following a pursuit involving electric dirt bikes in the southwest part of the city. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning when officers responded to a call about three individuals riding their electric dirt bikes erratically and performing stunts in the Coach Hill community around 1:30 a.m.

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There are people that are wanting to flee. In the past it would be ‘oh I’m sorry I didn’t realize this couldn’t be ridden here and off they go, but (now) we’re seeing an increasing number of people trying to flee from the police on these devices and the biggest challenge (is) they’re capable of incredible speeds.

When officers attempted to stop the riders, the trio fled, leading police and the HAWCS (Helicopters) on a chase through residential neighborhoods. While two of the teens were apprehended and charged under the Criminal Code of Canada, police are still actively searching for the third individual involved. Acting Superintendent Rob Patterson of the Calgary Police Traffic Division noted an increasing trend of individuals attempting to evade police on these devices, highlighting their capability for high speeds.

The chase underscores growing safety concerns in Calgary regarding the illegal operation of electric dirt bikes on public roads, sidewalks, pathways, and in parks. Communities like Evanston and Creekside have reported ongoing issues, with residents describing the bikes being used like a "personal pump track" in local parks, causing disruption and near-misses with pedestrians and even toddlers at nearby daycares. Community association leaders are urging parents to educate themselves on the legality of these bikes within city limits.

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These kids as young as 10 have been driving around our park, causing havoc in our community, cutting through the park’s pathways, lane splitting, popping wheelies along Simon’s Valley Parkway.

"We don't want to be the fun police," stated Bobby Kooner, the community association safety director, emphasizing the need for education rather than solely enforcement. The Calgary Police Service is working to address the rising number of complaints, as the popularity of electric dirt bikes continues to grow, posing a significant challenge for public safety.

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We want to get the education out to the parents who may be buying these bikes without knowing that they’re not legal within city limits. We don’t want to be the fun police, so we woul