Serious injuries reported after two 14‑year‑olds on e‑bike hit by vehicle in Garfield
Reports of a serious crash came in Tuesday afternoon at the intersection of Jewell Street and Columbus Avenue.
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Two 14‑year‑olds were seriously injured after their e‑bike collided with a vehicle Tuesday afternoon in Garfield.
Police say the crash happened around 3:29 p.m. at Jewell Street and Columbus Avenue. First responders arrived to find both teens badly hurt. They were taken to a nearby hospital, where one was admitted in critical condition.
The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
The mayor had earlier asked the community to pray for the injured students, their families and the driver involved.
Before this incident, Garfield police shared that new e-bike laws are now in effect and said enforcement will begin on July 19.
Under the new law, a 17-year-old must have a driver’s license, and a 15- or 16-year-old must have a motorized bicycle license. Children under the age of 15 are not allowed to operate e-bikes. All e-bikes must be registered and have insurance.
The Bergen County Prosecutor's Office is leading the investigation into the incident. The prosecutor determined that an Acura was driving north on Jewell Street, a designated one-way road. The e-bike was traveling southbound, opposite the flow of traffic.
Officials said the collision occurred when the e-bike hit the passenger side of the Acura as the car tried to make a left turn onto Columbus Avenue.
No charges are expected to be filed, the prosecutor said.
