Abigail Gillon dies in fatal Delaware County scooter crash
Abigail Gillon dies in fatal Delaware County scooter crash
Fatal Delaware County scooter crash death of Abigail Gillon
Twelve-year-old Abigail Gillon lost her life Monday night following a weekend accident involving an electric scooter in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. According to local police, Abigail and her 11-year-old friend Bella Jones were struck by a car while riding near the intersection of Lehr Boulevard and Concord Road in Aston Township.
In the wake of her tragic death, Abigail’s uncle, Ron Kralle, has called for new state legislation mandating helmet use for all minors using scooters, bicycles, or similar forms of transportation. He posted a heartfelt message on Facebook, advocating for the law with a unique proposal: no monetary fines, only the confiscation of the transportation device for noncompliance. He emphasized that such a step could be crucial in saving lives.
Kralle expressed the devastating impact of Abigail’s passing, not only on their family but on the broader community. He urged people to support the cause and widely share his message to push lawmakers into action. “I wouldn’t wish what we just had to endure on my worst enemy,” he wrote.
NBC10 reached out to every member of the Delaware County legislative delegation to gather reactions. State Representative Lisa Borowski, representing District 168, said she supports efforts that enhance child safety, although she noted enforcement details would be challenging. She praised the family for turning a tragedy into advocacy for change.
A representative for State Senator Tim Kearney stated his intention to connect with the Gillon family to discuss potential legislation. Senator Kearney, who serves on the Senate Transportation Committee, has previously worked on e-scooter-related amendments and is preparing to introduce a new safety-focused bill this fall. He emphasized the need for updated laws that address emerging transportation technologies, particularly regarding youth safety.
Opinions in the community were mixed. Elizabeth Elmendorf, visiting family nearby, was surprised Pennsylvania lacked a helmet law for children and expressed support for the proposal, calling it “basic safety.” In contrast, Delaware County resident Mike Skulski, while acknowledging the tragedy, opposed government mandates on parenting decisions, arguing safety education should begin at home.
The Pennsylvania House Transportation Committee confirmed that e-scooters are currently prohibited on state roads due to noncompliance with inspection and registration requirements. They are also banned on sidewalks. Despite multiple attempts to legalize e-scooters in recent years, no such legislation has yet passed.