2 teens hospitalized after side-by-side rollover in Lehigh Acres

LEHIGH ACRES, Fla. (WINK)—Two teenagers were hospitalized after a side-by-side rollover crash near the intersection of East 23rd Street and Columbus Avenue.

The Lee County Sheriff's Office said the rollover occurred around 9:30 p.m. Deep grooves in the dirt and discarded first-aid supplies remained at the scene. Family members stopped by to pick up pieces of the vehicle, including a headlight and hood, but did not want to speak on camera.

The 13 and 15-year-olds were injured in the crash. The sheriff's office is reminding parents that children under 16 must wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet and eye protection, when riding an off-road vehicle.

"By law, all-terrain vehicles are not permitted to operate on public roadways, except in areas specifically designated by the state," the sheriff's office said. "Operators must be at least 16 years old. Those under 16 must have completed an approved ATV safety course and be under adult supervision."

The vehicle landed on the side of a street that connects to sprawling neighborhoods where there is more forest than homes. Neighbors said they didn't hear the crash or ambulances; they found out about it through social media.

Off-road vehicles are common in the area. Neighbors said they mostly stay on a nearby dirt path or on the side of the road.

The sheriff's office said they are still investigating the crash. The family is asking for prayers for the two teens as they recover from their injuries.