Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Sunshine Coast E‑Bike Crash That Killed 8-Year-Old Prompts Queensland Pledge to Toughen Laws

Police are testing the seized bikes for speed and modifications, with the premier committing to tighter e‑bike rules.

Overview

  • Eight-year-old Zeke Hondow died after a head-on collision with a 15-year-old on a Mountain Creek bike path on Thursday afternoon, and he was pronounced at Sunshine Coast University Hospital.
  • The 15-year-old rider declined paramedic treatment and is assisting investigators, and police said both riders were wearing helmets.
  • The Forensic Crash Unit has seized both e-bikes and is examining their power, speed capability and any modifications, while appealing for witnesses and footage.
  • Premier David Crisafulli pledged law reforms, with Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg and Attorney-General Deb Frecklington saying tougher measures are being developed as a parliamentary e‑mobility inquiry proceeds toward a March 2026 report.
  • Scrutiny has intensified after a separate fatal electric dirt bike crash killed a teenager on the Gold Coast within days, against data showing injuries from e‑bikes and e‑scooters have more than doubled in recent years.