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Stoneham Teen’s E‑Bike Death Drives Push for Tighter Massachusetts Rules

Officials cite rising injuries, promising clearer rules for high‑speed micromobility as the case remains under investigation.

Overview

  • The Middlesex district attorney, Stoneham police and state police are investigating the Nov. 21 collision that killed 13-year-old Parker Robles, with no charges announced to date.
  • The driver, identified as 73-year-old Brois Smatkov, expressed remorse and said police towed his car and suspended his license while the investigation proceeds.
  • Lawmakers are weighing helmet mandates, licensing, registration, speed limits and minimum age requirements for e-bikes and electric dirt bikes.
  • A state Commission on Micro Mobility expects to deliver recommendations to the Legislature by early next year, with an emphasis on enforcement, education and manufacturer accountability.
  • Stoneham police boosted traffic patrols after reports of unsafe youth riding, as clinicians report sharp growth in injuries and about 90,000 e-bike ER visits nationwide over the past five years.