Biddeford Boy Burned After Dirt Bike Crash Sparks Flash Fire

On July 26, a 9‑year‑old boy was injured in Biddeford, Maine when the small dirt bike he was riding crashed into a curb in a parking lot, tipped over and ignited a flash fire.

Firefighters from the Biddeford Fire Department responded to 23 St. Joseph Street, found the bike heavily burned and the child with leg burns. He was taken to Maine Medical Center in Portland and later transferred to a specialized burn center in Boston. The Maine Office of State Fire Marshal determined the fire was accidental, caused by gasoline leaking from the fuel system and contacting hot engine components. Officials reminded the public about the flammability of gasoline and urged proper maintenance and protective gear.