Sarasota Officer Hits Child on Dirt Bike

An 8-year-old boy remains hospitalized after being struck by a Sarasota police officer's patrol car while riding a dirt bike at the intersection of 23rd Street and Maple Avenue. The incident, captured on body camera footage, occurred as the officer was leaving the scene of a separate call. The officer immediately administered first aid, performing chest compressions until an ambulance arrived. The footage, which has been released to the public, shows a visibly agitated crowd forming at the scene, with community members expressing distress. The officer involved is currently on restricted administrative duty as investigations by the Sarasota Police Department and the Florida Highway Patrol are underway. Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche extended thoughts and prayers to the boy’s family, acknowledging the ongoing serious nature of the investigation.