Teen cyclists’ reckless behavior raises safety concerns in Cape Coral

CAPE CORAL, Fla. —

Residents in Cape Coral say a group of teen bicyclists is putting drivers and themselves in danger by riding recklessly in traffic, swerving in front of cars and riding against traffic near local schools.

Neighbors report seeing teens attempt to provoke drivers by blocking lanes, weaving side to side in front of vehicles, and, in some cases, appearing to challenge cars to hit them. One incident was caught on video outside Trafalgar Elementary School Wednesday afternoon and shared with Gulf Coast News.

“It’s dangerous,” said Michelle Richard, a Cape Coral resident. “I love that kids are out playing. That’s great. But being out playing and trying to cause harm to other people — that’s not OK. It’s scary.”

Richard said her daughter called 911 after witnessing similar incidents involving the same group of teens. Video reviewed by Gulf Coast News appears to show at least one teen holding a phone while riding in traffic.

Dominic Franks, another resident, said he encountered a group of bicyclists who swerved repeatedly in front of his car.

“They all start swerving in front of me, going side to side and getting real close to the car before swerving out of the way,” Franks said.

Reporters also observed a teen riding the wrong way in traffic near Trafalgar Elementary School, a situation neighbors say could easily turn deadly if a driver is not paying close attention.

Cape Coral police say they are aware of the dangerous behavior and are urging parents and young riders to understand the serious risks of performing stunts near moving vehicles. Officers warn that drivers often do not have enough time to react, turning what may seem like harmless fun into a life-threatening situation.

Residents say they hope parents step in before someone is seriously injured.

“I’m sure their parents have no idea what their kids are out there doing,” Richard said. “It’s good to see kids having fun, but that’s not the right way to have fun.”

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