A16-year-old boy was arrested Sunday, March 8 after deputies said he led them on a pursuit through Fontana and into Rialto while riding an electric motorcycle and failing to yield to a traffic stop.
The incident occurred around 1:22 p.m., when Deputy Garcia-Perez of the Fontana Sheriff’s Station attempted to stop an electric motorcycle traveling west on Slover Avenue near Locust Avenue, authorities said.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff ’s Department, the rider ignored the deputy’s emergency lights and siren and continued westbound. The suspect entered a Target shopping center and ran numerous stop signs in the parking lot, posing a risk to motorists and pedestrians, authorities said. The rider then maneuvered through traffic and temporarily eluded deputies.
During an area search, Garcia-Perez located the suspect traveling east on Valley Boulevard in Fontana. Deputies initiated another enforcement stop, but the rider again failed to yield, prompting a pursuit. The Sheriff ’s Aviation Division assisted from the air, authorities said.
After an approximately five-mile pursuit, with speeds reaching 40 to 50 mph, the suspect was apprehended on the Pacific Electric Trail, a walking and bike path near the 960 block of Second Street in Rialto.
Authorities identified the suspect as a 16-year-old Hispanic male resident of Fontana. His name was not released because he is a juvenile. He was booked into San Bernardino County Juvenile Hall on suspicion of failure to yield and evading a peace officer under the California Vehicle Code. The electric motorcycle was impound- ed.
Authorities reminded the public that electric motorcycles are motor-powered vehicles capable of traveling at speeds exceeding 28 mph. They require registration as off-highway vehicles and are not permitted on public roads, sidewalks, bike paths or city streets. Officials said such vehicles are allowed only on private property or designated off-highway vehicle trails.
Common violations associated with electric motorcycles include operating an unregistered vehicle, driving without a license, riding on sidewalks and allowing a minor to operate a vehicle unlawfully.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Fontana Sheriff ’s Station at 909-356-6767. Anon- ymous tips may be submitted to We-Tip at 800-78-CRIME (27463) or online at wetip.com.
