Dirt Bike Fire Leaves Maine Child With Serious Burns

According to a press release from the Maine Department of Public Safety, a 9-year-old boy suffered serious burn injuries after a dirt bike caught fire following a crash in Biddeford, according to investigators with the Maine Office of State Fire Marshal.

The Office of State Fire Marshal responded to 23 St. Joseph Street at the request of the Biddeford Fire Department after the incident, which involved a dirt bike with an engine displacement of less than 50cc.

Investigators said the child was riding the dirt bike in a parking lot when he struck a curb. The bike continued forward before tipping onto its side, triggering a flash fire.

Firefighters arriving at the scene found the dirt bike with significant fire damage, including extensive burning to the seat and heat damage to the fuel tank and engine. The child was found nearby with burns to his legs.

A nearby homeowner provided surveillance video that captured the crash and subsequent fire. According to investigators, the footage showed the dirt bike striking the curb before falling over, at which point the flash fire erupted.

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The child was initially taken to Maine Medical Center in Portland before being transferred to a specialized burn center in Boston because of the severity of his injuries.

The State Fire Marshal's Office determined the fire was accidental. Investigators concluded gasoline leaked from the dirt bike's fuel system after the crash and ignited when it came into contact with hot engine components.

The Office of State Fire Marshal is reminding the public that gasoline is highly flammable and that fuel leaks following crashes can ignite quickly if they reach hot engine or exhaust parts. Officials also encourage riders to keep their equipment properly maintained and wear appropriate protective gear when operating off-road vehicles.