Groton Considers Fines For Dirt Bike, ATV Riders: Report | Groton, CT Patch

GROTON, CT — The Town of Groton is considering a new ordinance to deter the illegal use of dirt bikes and ATVs, according to WTNH News-8.

The ordinance comes after the death of Tiara Wheeler, 24, of Norwich, who died in a dirt bike crash in Groton in August 2023. The driver, Scott Whipple, 24, of Mashantucket, was charged in the case.

See related: Mashantucket Man Charged In Fatal Dirt Bike Crash: Police

At the time, Town of Groton Police Chief L. J. Fusaro issued a statement about the crash, calling it "a very unfortunate tragedy" and noting that "a group of motorcycles and ATVs...were operating recklessly both before and after this crash."

He also said someone "who may have been traveling with them stopped for this crash, and rather than rendering aid to the critically injured parties, removed the dirt bike from the road."

A city councilor told WTNH News-8 that the new ordinance was "inspired" by last year's accident.

The ordinance would include fines of $1,000 for the first offense, then jump to $1,500 for the second and $2,000 for the third.

Dirt bike and ATV riders have been causing problems throughout the state. Norwich passed a law last year banning the vehicles from city streets. In Newtown, police have employed a drone unit to track illegal dirt bike riding.

See related: Norwich Passes Law Banning ATVs, Dirt Bikes From City Streets: Report

Eye In The Sky: Newtown PD Drone Unit Tracks Illegal Dirt Biking

Dirt Bike Riders Cause Issues In Montville: Police