Friends React After Teen on Electric Skateboard Critically Injured A 14-year-old girl was critically injured in a collision involving an electric skateboard and a motorcycle near Wellington, Florida, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on Wednesday when the girl, riding eastbound on 9396 Pinion Drive, was struck by a Kawasaki motorcycle driven by a 14-year-old boy. Both teens were hospitalized, with the girl suffering severe injuries including two brain bleeds, pelvic bleeding, and a lacerated spleen. The boy sustained minor injuries, though officials noted the girl is expected to survive. Friends of the injured girl described the scene as chaotic and alarming. Alex Melgarejo, one of her acquaintances, recounted hearing a loud boom before witnessing the crash. “I saw one of them lying on the ground… they were calling for help, so I called 911,” he said. Emergency crews, including firetrucks, ambulances, and police, responded swiftly, blocking off the road for hours. Melgarejo emphasized the girl’s unresponsiveness after the crash, expressing deep concern for her condition. “The girl was not moving at all. I just felt really bad for them,” he added. Investigators confirmed that neither teenager was wearing safety equipment at the time of the collision. Tony Barbanente, owner of a West Palm Beach bike shop, highlighted the growing risks associated with micromobility devices. “Whatever the mobility device — scooter, bicycle, skateboard, motorcycle — be aware of what you’re riding,” he said. “Know the hazards, know its limitations, and wear the proper safety equipment.” Barbanente pointed to the rapid rise in popularity of such devices, which may be outpacing safety awareness and regulatory measures.#kawasaki_motorcycle #wellington_florida #alex_melgarejo #pinion_drive #tony_barbanente
