Police say dirt bike rider was shot by police officer in North Philadelphia – NBC10 Philadelphia

A man on a dirt bike was shot by an officer from the Philadelphia Police Department’s ATV enforcement unit, authorities said.

Shortly after 3 p.m., uniformed police officers pursued a dirt bike rider in North Philadelphia, according to Deputy Police Chief Mike Cram.

When one of the officers approached the driver at the corner of 6th and Somerset Streets, he explained that his actions were illegal in the city of Philadelphia, Cram said.

During that conversation, the dirt bike rider indicated he had a gun on him, Cram said. Then a second officer fired his weapon, hitting the rider twice.

According to Cram, the driver was alone when officers approached him. His age is currently unknown.

The driver was taken to a nearby hospital where he is currently in critical condition, police said.

Deputy Commissioner Cram said the enforcement unit has already seized over 180 all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes this summer, more than last year.

This is a developing story. Check back here for updates.