Teen on E-Bike struck and killed by a landscaping truck in Scotch Plains

A community is in mourning after a 13-year-old boy was struck and killed by a landscaping truck while riding an e-bike on Wednesday afternoon, authorities said.

The collision occurred at the intersection of Mountain Avenue and Mountainview Avenue at approximately 2:12 p.m.

Upon arrival, first responders found the teenager, who has not been publicly identified, critically injured. He was rushed by EMS to University Hospital in Newark, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The scene was marked by poignant evidence of the tragedy, with the boy’s e-bike and backpack lying in the roadway. The driver of the landscaping truck stopped a short distance away and is fully cooperating with the investigation, according to police.

The intersection was closed for several hours as authorities investigated, but has since reopened.

In a somber statement, Scotch Plains Mayor Josh Losardo confirmed the victim was a local student.

“It is with profound sadness that I share tragic news with our community,” Losardo said. “This heartbreaking loss is felt across our entire community.”

The mayor emphasized the availability of support, noting that counselors will be available for students and staff in the Scotch Plains-Fanwood school district, as well as for the first responders who handled the traumatic scene.

“At moments like this, it is more important than ever that we come together as a community, to support one another, to lean on each other, and to show compassion in the face of tragedy,” Losardo said. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of this child. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they endure the unimaginable.”

The crash remains under investigation by the Scotch Plains and Union County police departments. No charges have been filed at this time.

Authorities are urging any witnesses who have not yet come forward to contact the Scotch Plains Police Department Traffic Bureau at (908) 322-7100, extensions 103 or 104.