The group of young daredevils that constructed a dangerous makeshift bike ramp at the Kitimat Valley Institute were identified with help from the public.
RCMP Media Relations Officer Constable Rebekah Draht said the ramp, which had an 8-foot drop, was reported to Kitimat RCMP on May 5.
“The ramp was constructed by the youths who used scrap materials they believed were destined for the dump,” said Draht.
She said the youths came forward and took responsibility for their actions, which she said have been deemed non-criminal in nature.
They said the youths dismantled the ramp, returned the materials to where they found them and apologized to staff at KVI.
“Not only that, the youths are now working with the RCMP to submit a proposal to the District of Kitimat in an effort to rejuvenate the old BMX track,” said Draht. “The BMX track will allow these individuals, and other youth in the community, to have a safe venue to enjoy this activity.”
District of Kitimat Leisure Services director Martin Gould confirmed discussions are underway regarding reviving the BMX track, which is situated between the back of KVI and the Hirsch Creek Golf Club parking lot.
“Most of the BMX track is situated within KVI’s property and hasn’t been used since the 1980s,” said Gould. “We will have to look into making the area safe and reforming the dirt hills at the track.”
Draht thanked the public for helping the RCMP identify the youths and commended the youth for “stepping up, apologizing for their actions and becoming part of the solution”.