Northfield E-Scooter Incident Leads to Arrest After Police Officer Seriously Injured
An illegal e-scooter rider has been arrested in Birmingham after crashing into a police officer, causing serious injuries that required hospital treatment. The incident occurred on Northfield High Street yesterday, Thursday, February 19, when officers attempted to stop the teenage rider who was operating the machine unlawfully.
Officer Suffers Fractured Knee During Confrontation
The police constable, who serves with the West Midlands Police Guardian Taskforce dedicated to combating knife crime and serious youth violence, sustained a broken knee during the altercation. He was immediately transported to hospital where he remains today, awaiting surgery for his injuries. Despite the severity of the incident, authorities report that the officer is in good spirits and receiving support from both family and colleagues.
Suspect Apprehended and E-Scooter Seized
An 18-year-old male from the Longbridge area was taken into custody on suspicion of multiple offenses including:
- Wounding
- Dangerous driving
- Failing to stop for officers
The e-scooter involved in the collision has been seized by police as part of their ongoing investigation. The suspect remains in custody while inquiries continue.
Sequence of Events Leading to Collision
According to police statements, the incident unfolded around 1:30 PM when officers on patrol noticed the e-scooter rider behaving suspiciously on Northfield High Street. When officers attempted to intervene, the rider initially fled down an alleyway before encountering additional police personnel waiting to intercept him.
The teenager then performed a U-turn and accelerated back onto the High Street, where he collided directly with the police constable from the Guardian Taskforce. The impact resulted in the officer's knee fracture and necessitated emergency medical attention.
Police Investigation and Public Appeal
Detective Superintendent Dave Sproson of Birmingham Police emphasized the seriousness of the incident, stating: "The officer who was injured was simply trying to detain the rider so he could be spoken to, but has instead been seriously injured."
Police have already gathered substantial evidence including:
- Multiple witness statements
- CCTV footage from the area
- Body-worn video from officers present
Authorities have expressed gratitude to members of the public who stopped to assist the injured officer immediately following the collision. However, investigators continue to appeal for any additional witnesses who may have observed the incident but have not yet come forward. Anyone with information is urged to contact police, quoting reference number 2540 of February 19.
Ongoing Concerns About Illegal E-Scooter Usage
This incident highlights continuing concerns about illegal e-scooter operation in Birmingham and across the West Midlands region. Private e-scooters remain illegal to use on public roads, pavements, and cycle paths, though rental schemes operate in designated areas under specific regulations.
The West Midlands Police regularly provide guidance on e-scooter laws and safe usage practices, emphasizing that only approved rental e-scooters used within designated areas are permitted on public highways. This arrest serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences when e-scooters are operated illegally and dangerously.
