Hundreds of e-bike riders cause traffic disruptions in Orlando, police say
ORLANDO, Fla. —
Several juveniles were detained and multiple electric bikes were towed after hundreds of riders disrupted traffic and interfered with emergency vehicles in downtown Orlando, police said.
The incident happened Saturday, July 18, after the Orlando Police Department said it received reports of a large group of juveniles recklessly operating electric and motorized bikes.
Officers saw riders running red lights, blocking intersections and impeding traffic, police said, adding the group also prevented an ambulance and other emergency vehicles from responding through the area.
Video released by police Thursday showed large groups riding through intersections and officers detaining some of the juveniles. The footage included riders near E. Colonial Drive and N. Fern Creek Avenue.
Officers issued criminal citations when appropriate and had several bikes towed because they were not properly registered, according to the department. The detained juveniles were later released to their parents or guardians.
Police did not disclose how many juveniles were detained, how many citations were issued or how many bikes were towed.
Because of the group’s size and mobility, officers could not immediately apprehend every rider, the department said. Police took enforcement action when officers determined it could be done safely.
“This type of dangerous behavior will not be tolerated,” the department said.
Orlando police said officers will continue enforcing traffic laws to keep downtown safe for residents, families and visitors.