A vigil held to honor a 16-year-old boy who died in a motorbike crash devolved into chaos, with police reporting they were pelted with fireworks and a vehicle was set on fire. The incident occurred in Cramlington, Northumberland, on Monday evening.
The teenager died on August 24 after his Yamaha motorbike collided with a Volkswagen Polo. A 24-year-old man who was also on the motorbike sustained serious injuries and was taken to the hospital, where he remains. The driver of the Volkswagen remained at the scene to cooperate with authorities.
Dozens of locals gathered at a sports field for a balloon release, fireworks, and flares to commemorate the boy. However, the event escalated when masked individuals on electric bikes, motorcycles, and quad bikes reportedly engaged in anti-social behavior.
Footage shared on social media depicted groups of riders joyriding on the field and speeding through residential streets. Some posts included captions such as "Keeping it lit up there cuz" and "We kept it lit for you today bro."
Northumbria Police deployed multiple units, including a drone team, to the scene. Officers seized four Sur-Ron electric bikes and issued warnings regarding the use of vehicles for anti-social behavior. The police confirmed receiving reports of a vehicle being set on fire and fireworks being thrown at officers. No injuries were reported.
Superintendent Michelle Robson stated, "We understand that people will want to come together to remember those who have died, and we ask that they do so safely, respectfully and within the law. Where such events are used as an opportunity to carry out offences, we are committed to taking action against those responsible."
An investigation is underway to identify those involved in the disruptive behavior. Police are appealing for anyone with CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage from the time of the disorder to come forward. This incident follows a similar event in Haswell, County Durham, the previous week, where cars were set alight during a vigil for victims of a road collision.