ORLANDO, Fla. — Lake Nona teen Colton Remsburg is currently on life support after being involved in a scooter accident.
People who knew the 13-year-old say he was a dedicated athlete and a fun teen to be around. Those close to him say they hope the crash starts a bigger conversation about scooter safety education, helmet use, and making sure both riders and drivers are paying attention on the road.
According to Florida Highway Patrol, Colton was riding an electric scooter when he was struck by a pickup truck driven by a 35-year-old man.
Troopers say the crash happened on the eastbound lanes of Moss Park Road near Savannah Pines Drive.
Lake Nona Youth Sports President Jason Kleiner says Colton was a promising football player. The 13-year-old was set to start his first season playing tackle football.
“Colton is one of our youth athletes. He’s been involved with the program for about three years,” Kleiner said. “Yesterday was actually equipment pick up so he should have been here picking up his equipment.”
Kleiner says he has already spoken with public officials about concerns surrounding e-bikes and scooters in the area.
“As soon as this happened, we started putting our heads together … trying to figure out how do we prevent the next death?” Kleiner said.
Community leaders say enforcement and education are both needed, not just for riders and parents, but for drivers sharing the road as well.
“This is the second student in District 2 that has died because of micromobility devices,” said Maria Salamanca, Orange County Public Schools board member for District 2.
Salamanca is calling for stronger safety awareness and enforcement.
“I’ve brought this up many times to the board. I’m very concerned. I’m going to have a town hall meeting with Commissioner Keen,” Salamanca said.
Right now, those closest to Colton say their focus remains on supporting his family while also making sure other children stay safe.
Kleiner says Lake Nona Youth Sports plans to hold a moment of silence for Colton before Friday’s game to honor him.
For now, Florida Highway Patrol says the investigation into the crash remains ongoing.