PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. — Two teenagers were hospitalized this week after a collision involving a motorcycle and an electric skateboard near Wellington, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.
Around 10 p.m. Wednesday, a 14-year-old girl riding an electric skateboard eastbound near 9396 Pinion Drive was struck by a Kawasaki motorcycle driven by a 14-year-old boy.
WATCH BELOW: WPTV HEARS FROM FRIENDS WHO CALLED 911
The girl is in critical condition with major injuries, including two brain bleeds, pelvic bleeding and a lacerated spleen, according to the crash report. The boy sustained minor injuries. PBSO says the girl is expected to survive.
Friends of the girl say they were nearby when the crash happened and immediately called 911.
"I just heard a boom," said Alex Melgarejo, a friend. "I saw one of them lying on the ground… they were calling for help, so I called 911."
He described the scene as chaotic, with emergency crews flooding the neighborhood. He said the girl was unresponsive after the crash.
"Firetrucks, ambulances, a lot of cops blocking off the road for hours," said Melgarejo. "The girl was not moving at all. I just felt really bad for them."
According to investigators, neither teen was wearing safety equipment at the time of the crash.
As micromobility devices like electric skateboards and e-bikes grow in popularity, safety concerns are also increasing.
"Whatever the mobility device — scooter, bicycle, skateboard, motorcycle — be aware of what you’re riding," said Tony Barbanente, owner of a West Palm Beach bike shop. “Know the hazards, know its limitations, and wear the proper safety equipment."
County data shows there were six fatal crashes in 2025 involving micromobility devices.
Barbanente says the rapid rise in these devices may be outpacing safety awareness and regulation.
"In certain pockets, yes, they’re very popular," he said. "And the laws haven’t quite kept up with the growth of the space and products."
He points to proposed legislation, including Senate Bill 382, which would add safety measures such as speed limits for e-bikes on sidewalks and the creation of a safety task force. The bill is currently awaiting the governor’s signature.
Meanwhile, friends of the injured teen are hoping for her recovery.
"I just hope she wakes up soon and everything's fine, and her parents are doing okay through all of this," said Melgarejo.
The crash remains under investigation.
