Accidents: 1)Parent charged after teen crashes e-bike into child in Tottenham; 2) Snowmobiler seriously injured in crash south of Beausoleil Island

1)Parent charged after teen crashes e-bike into child in Tottenham

Courtesy Barrie360.com

By Ian MacLennan, February 17, 2026

The parent of a teenager who was riding an electric bike that crashed into a child in Tottenham has been charged.

On July 25, 2025, Nottawasaga OPP responded to a report of a collision involving an e-bike that struck a pedestrian

According to police, investigators determined a 13-year-old was operating an e-bike that had been purchased by their parent, who permitted the youth to operate it on the road.

As a result, a 43-year-old from New Tecumseth has been charged with dangerous operation causing bodily harm.

The youth has been charged under the Highway Traffic Act with careless driving causing bodily harm.

Electric Dirt Bikes and Roadway Use

Electric dirt bikes are classified as motor vehicles under Ontario law. This means:

• They cannot be operated on public roads unless they are properly plated, insured, and meet all required safety equipment standards.
• Operators must hold the appropriate class of motorcycle licence.
• These vehicles are intended for off‑road (if registered and insured) and private property use only, unless fully road‑legal.

“Parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure youth riders use these vehicles safely and in compliance with all applicable laws,” police said in a news release.

2)Snowmobiler seriously injured in crash south of Beausoleil Island

Courtesy Barrie360. com

By Ian MacLennan, February 17, 2026

A 54-year-old woman was seriously injured when she was ejected from the snowmobile she was riding near Present Island, south of Beausoleil Island in Severn Sound.

Southern Georgian Bay OPP officers were alerted around 1 p.m. Monday about the incident, which occurred several kilometres from the nearest land access.

According to police, the woman was thrown from the machine after the track suddenly detached, causing the snowmobile to stop abruptly.

Penetanguishene Fire Services responded with its Argo unit, while police deployed marine snow vehicles to reach the woman.

Midland Fire Services and County of Simcoe paramedics also assisted in the operation.

The woman was removed from the ice and taken to a local hospital for further treatment.

The OPP reminds snowmobilers and outdoor enthusiasts that emergencies can happen without warning, especially in remote or low-visibility areas.

Police advise riders to always carry a charged cellphone or communication device, share their travel plans with someone before departure, pack emergency supplies suitable for winter and remote terrain, and use location-identifying tools, such as the What3Words app, to quickly provide emergency services with an exact position in a time of distress.