A man has been charged with multiple offences following a serious incident on the Gold Coast where two teenage girls were allegedly struck by an e-bike. The 40-year-old from Urangan on the Fraser Coast is accused of hitting the 15-year-olds as they rode in a designated bicycle lane.
Alleged Incident on Marine Parade
The alleged collision occurred around 7pm on January 10 along Marine Parade in Coolangatta, a popular coastal area on the southern end of the Gold Coast. Police reports indicate the two girls were riding in the bicycle lane when they were hit by the man operating the e-bike.
Serious Injuries and Immediate Aftermath
Following the impact, both teenagers sustained serious injuries requiring medical treatment. Authorities allege the man did not stop to check on the girls or offer any assistance. Instead, he is accused of continuing his journey and crossing the state border into New South Wales.
This alleged failure to stop and render aid forms a significant part of the charges now laid against him.
Arrest and Subsequent Charges
A short time after the incident, New South Wales police arrested the man in Tweed Heads in relation to other unrelated matters. It was not until almost two weeks later, on Thursday, that he attended Coolangatta Police Station to face specific charges connected to the e-bike incident.
Multiple Serious Offences
The man has been formally charged with one count of dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm. This charge is particularly serious given the nature of the injuries sustained by the two girls.
Additionally, he faces charges of leaving the scene of an accident while allegedly affected by an intoxicating substance. Police have also charged him with failing to stop and render assistance to injured persons and driving without a valid licence.
Court Proceedings and Bail Application
The matter was initially scheduled to be heard before the Southport Magistrates Court on Saturday. However, the proceedings were adjourned and are now set to continue on Tuesday.
During this upcoming court appearance, the man is expected to make an application for bail. The adjournment allows both legal teams additional time to prepare their respective cases given the serious nature of the charges involved.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety and the responsibilities of all road users, particularly in shared spaces like bicycle lanes. The charges reflect the serious view authorities are taking of the alleged actions and their consequences for the injured teenagers.
