Fort McMurray youth charged after fleeing police on illegal e-dirt bike in June

A Fort McMurray youth has been released from police custody following an investigation into illegal off-highway vehicle use from June 2025. Police conducted a search warrant in the Thickwood area and confiscated an e-dirt bike at a home in the 600 Block of Signal Road.

The youth, who cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, is facing three counts of flight from a peace officer and three counts of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle. A court date has been set for August 18, 2026.

The Wood Buffalo RCMP issued a stern warning last month following a series of OHV accidents in the region. Off-highway vehicle use is illegal on Fort McMurray roads outside the Abasand neighbourhood, including all sidewalks, green spaces, and urban trails.

"No thrill, social media post, or moment of excitement is worth risking your life or the lives of others," said Staff Sergeant Sabrina Clayton, Acting Operations Support Officer at Wood Buffalo. "Fleeing from police and driving dangerously can lead to serious criminal charges, injuries, or worse."

RCMP said continuous patrolling and law enforcement related to illegal OHV use remain in place to mitigate actions that can affect the community for years to come.