Detectives appeal to public after alleged stolen motorcycle hit-and-run breaks teen’s leg in Rangeway

Geraldton detectives are investigating after a group of juveniles allegedly threatened a 17-year-old, stole his motorbike and then ran over another teenager, breaking his leg. Police say on Saturday a 17-year-old was cleaning his motorcycle in the backyard of his Karloo home when he was disturbed by a group of juveniles on the street about 3pm. Detectives will allege a group of about eight juveniles, aged between 12 and 18, approached the house, throwing rocks and bricks over the fence before kicking in a fence panel to gain entry into the backyard. Det-Sen. Sgt Bruce McDonald said the group threatened to harm the victim if he didn’t hand over the motorbike. “The victim was outnumbered and feared for his safety,” he said. “The group stole his motorbike and left the property as they continued to threaten him.” Det-Sen. Sgt McDonald said the group rode the red 2021 Honda CRF 450CC motorcycle around the Karloo and Rangeway area. About 5.40pm, detectives allege another 17-year-old boy was walking with his eight-year-old sister on Rifle Range Road near the intersection of Birch Street in Rangeway when he was struck by the stolen motorbike. “The 17-year-old suffered a broken leg as a result of being hit by the motorbike and was conveyed to Geraldton Regional Hospital for medical treatment,” Det-Sen. Sgt McDonald said. The boy is currently in a stable condition and recovering well. Det-Sen. Sgt McDonald said the motorbike was not yet recovered, and police were appealing to the community for assistance. “We ask if anyone has any information about the location of the stolen motor bike or the robbery matter to contact police,” he said. Detectives have charged a 15-year-old from Rangeway with aggravated robbery, steal a motor vehicle, no authority to drive and a 14-year-old boy from Rangeway with aggravated robbery and steal a motor vehicle, dangerous driving causing bodily harm and driver fail to report an incident occasioning bodily harm. Both juveniles have been remanded in custody and were due to face court on Tuesday. A 12-year-old boy from Rangeway is in custody currently assisting detectives with the investigation.