Shortly after 5:00 pm on Sunday January 25th, Covington Police Officers responded to an accident involving a motorized skateboard in the 300 block of Boston Street that claimed the life of 31 year old Jerry Siles Jr. of Covington.
Preliminary investigations revealed that a ScooterX 49cc gas powered skateboard driven by Mr. Siles was traveling westbound on Boston Street when, for reasons still under investigation, Mr. Siles lost control and was thrown from the skateboard. Mr. Siles was not wearing a helmet and sustained critical injuries. Mr. Siles was transported to St. Tammany Parish Hospital and later transferred to North Oaks Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries. Impairment is unknown and toxicology results are pending an autopsy.
Multiple websites advertise the SkaterX 49cc gas powered skateboard capable of reaching speeds of up to 37 miles per hour and not approved for use on public roadways. The use of DOT approved helmets saves lives. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, helmet use is approximately 37% effective in preventing motorcycle deaths and 67% effective in preventing brain injuries.
This accident remains under investigation and additional details will be released as they are made available. Any witnesses to the incident are asked to call the Covington Police Department at (985)892-8500 or CrimeStoppers at (504)822-1111.
