RIVIERA BEACH, Fla. — The Riviera Beach community is mourning the loss of 16-year-old Lindy Douglas, who tragically died following a crash Saturday afternoon involving a mini bike and a car. The accident, which also left 17-year-old Joell Banks injured, occurred on West Blue Heron Boulevard, a busy stretch often crowded with cars and pedestrians. Authorities say the investigation into the fatal collision remains ongoing.
According to the Riviera Beach Police Department (RBPD), officers were called to the scene shortly before 3 p.m. after receiving reports of a serious crash. When first responders arrived, they discovered the two teenagers who had been riding a small, non-street-legal mini bike that collided with a Nissan Sentra. Both were rushed to St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach, where Lindy later died from her injuries. Banks sustained minor injuries and is expected to recover.
Investigators believe the teens were traveling eastbound on Blue Heron Boulevard when the mini bike veered into westbound lanes and into the path of the oncoming Nissan. Police said the car was reportedly traveling above the posted speed limit when the collision occurred. The force of the impact threw both riders from the bike. The driver of the Nissan was not injured and remained at the scene, fully cooperating with investigators.
Authorities noted that neither Lindy nor Joell was wearing a helmet, and the mini bike was not approved for use on public roadways — factors that may have worsened the outcome. The RBPD Traffic Homicide Investigation Unit is leading the case and has not filed any charges at this time. Investigators are reviewing roadway evidence, vehicle data, and witness statements to determine the exact cause of the crash.
The tragedy has sparked renewed concern about youth safety and the growing use of small motorized bikes on city streets. Police officials are urging parents to educate young riders about road safety and to ensure they use protective gear at all times. “Mini bikes and dirt bikes are not designed for public roads,” authorities emphasized, reminding residents that helmets and adherence to traffic laws save lives.
As the community grieves, friends and neighbors have begun leaving tributes in honor of Lindy Douglas — remembered as energetic, friendly, and full of life. Support has poured in for both families as Riviera Beach reflects on the fragility of life and the importance of safety awareness for all who share the road.
