Poole pit bike crash: Inquest opens into 16-year-old's death

Ellis Selby-Richings, a 16-year-old student from Poole, died at Southampton Hospital on October 22 after crashing a pit bike at the Turlin Moor Recreation Ground.

And Dorset Coroner Brendan Allen opened the inquest at Bournemouth Town Hall on Tuesday.

The inquest was told: “On Monday, October 19, police received a report of a collision involving a 16-year-old male on a pit bike at the Turlin Moor Recreation ground where there are waist high railings.

“He was airlifted to Southampton Hospital. His health continued to decline and he died in the care of the hospital.”

The inquest heard that Dr Michael Stewart provided his opinion of the medical cause of death to be one of asphyxiation, secondary to spinal trauma.

Mr Allen adjourned the inquest for a review hearing to be held on March 9, 2021, at the Bournemouth Town Hall.

As reported, Dorset Police received a report in relation to the crash involving a teenage boy on a pit bike on the recreation ground between Poole Rugby Football Club and the Turlin Moor estate in the Blandford Road area at around 10.45pm on Monday, October 19.

It was reported that the pit bike was involved in a collision with metal railings. When officers arrived at the scene, the pit bike was not there. However, officers recovered the bike the following afternoon.

Two local boys, aged 13 and 16, were arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice.

And a mountain of floral tributes were left for Mr Selby-Richings at the recreation ground.

Dozens of flowers were attached to the railings close to the Poole Rugby Football Club clubhouse, with many messages left on balloons, cards and the railings.

Police Sergeant Craig Tatton, of the traffic unit, said: “Our thoughts are very much with the boy’s family and loved ones at this very difficult time.

“I would like to renew our appeal for any witnesses or anyone with information who has not yet spoken to officers to please contact Dorset Police.”