PSNI issue scrambler bike warning as woman '˜very critical'

The 35-year-old woman remained in a critical condition in hospital on Wednesday following Tuesday evening’s collision in Colin Glen Forest Park in west Belfast.

Two teenage males, aged 15 and 17, were arrested in the wake of the incident and remained in custody on Wednesday evening.

PSNI Superintendent Melanie Jones said: “This is an active and live investigation, we have a woman who remains in a very critical condition in hospital and I am appealing for any members of the public who were in the park yesterday evening and saw any off-road bikes being used at around 6pm in the run-up to this tragic collision to please come forward with any information that you may hold.

“I want to take this opportunity to remind the public that while the use of such motorised vehicles as a leisure activity can appear to be both exciting and fun, if used inappropriately, can be dangerous and against the law.

“We are aware of concerns in the local community about people riding scramblers and quads recklessly, especially in public parks, and I want to assure the public that we will take action to curb the nuisance and dangers associated with the use of off-road scramblers and quads in public areas.”

Ms Jones added: “I would urge people to consider others in the areas where these vehicles are being used. Parents too are asked to play their part by considering how their children use these vehicles.

“Police also have the power to seize these vehicles. It is important that people recognise that this is a real possibility and has happened before. Police will enforce the necessary legislation in an effort to ensure public safety.”