Man, 20, arrested following fatal e-scooter crash that killed 16-year-old in Bromley

A man has been arrested after a 16-year-old boy was killed in a hit and run incident while riding an e-scooter.

Officers were called to Southborough Lane, Bromley, in the early hours of Sunday following reports of a collision involving a car and an e-scooter.

The Metropolitan Police attended with members of the London Ambulance Service (LAS) and found the teenager, who had been riding the scooter, with serious injuries.

He was taken to a central London hospital where he later died.

The Met said the boy’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

The car, a red Fiat Punto, did not stop at the scene but the vehicle was discovered later on Sunday morning in nearby Southwood Close.

The driver, a 20-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of failing to stop at the scene of a collision, causing death by dangerous driving and providing a positive alcohol breath test.

He was taken into custody, where he remains.

Officers are also investigating the disappearance of the e-scooter that was being ridden at the time of the crash, which is believed to have been stolen from the scene.

The Met said they are keen to speak with the occupants of a dark-coloured people carrier-type car with a sliding door, which was seen in the area.

Anyone who witnessed the collision, the removal of the e-scooter, or who saw a red Fiat Punto being driven in the area at around 1.20am, has been urged to call police on 0208 285 1574, providing the reference 775/18JUL.

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, by calling 0800 555 111.

It comes about a week after the Government faced criticism about private e-scooters with critics suggesting the roads had become “a wild west of lawlessness” since they were allowed.

Ministers had encouraged the “de facto legalisation” of the electric devices, leading to a situation where “riders are terrorising pedestrians”, Parliament was told.