West Philadelphia

Dirt biker ‘popping a wheelie' dies after being pinned under car, police say

The deadly crash happened at 52nd and Spruce streets on Nov. 13, 2024

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A young man died after he got pinned under a car that collided with his dirt bike in West Philadelphia Wednesday night.

Around 8:16 p.m. on Nov. 13, 2024, a dirt bike was traveling northbound on 52nd Street “popping a wheelie” when it crossed the intersection of Spruce Street, Captain Andrew DiSanto said.

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At the same time a black Genesis sedan was making a turn to go eastbound when it collided with the dirt bike, DiSanto said.

A man, believed to be around 26 years old, who was on the dirt bike was struck by the vehicle and got trapped underneath it. Fire apparatus had to lift the car to get the unconscious man free, police said.

He was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead just before 9 p.m.

Officials are not sure the extent of his injuries and the exact cause of death.

DiSanto said the car driver -- who wasn't injured -- was making a legal turn.

“I assume he was not traveling that fast at the time, he was not speeding,” DiSanto said.

It was possible that the dirt bike may have been stolen, Disanto said.

The investigation was ongoing through the night.

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