**Grandmother Left Fighting for Life After E-Bike Collision in Wigan, Court Hears**
In a deeply disturbing incident, the harrowing details of a collision in Wigan have emerged through a recorded 999 call. The emergency call—which was played during a recent court hearing—recounted the immediate aftermath after a grandmother, Margaret Scaldwell, suffered catastrophic injuries when struck by an e-bike. The court heard how those involved failed to stay at the scene to offer assistance.
The accident took place on 1 August 2023 as Margaret, believed to be in her 60s, was attempting to cross the road. The e-bike, which carried two 22-year-old men, collided with her, throwing her into the air and onto the pavement. The impact left Margaret with multiple fractures to her legs and arms, numerous broken ribs, and severe facial trauma. According to police testimony, the injuries were so severe that she remained in a medically induced coma for several months.
The court was told that the e-bike was being ridden by Kian Monks, a former youth footballer for Wigan Athletic. Upon striking Margaret, both Monks and his pillion passenger reportedly left the scene without calling for help. Members of the public acted swiftly, with some witnesses describing attempts to stop the responsible individuals from fleeing.
A recording of the phone call made to emergency services captured the distress of the situation. The caller desperately described, “She’s in the middle of the road, she’s just been knocked over. Her head is like, open. There’s blood everywhere. She is breathing.” Further information shared with the 999 operator revealed that Margaret was unresponsive at the time, lying face-down on the road with significant bleeding and head injuries.
The incident drew immediate attention in the local community, highlighting concerns about the misuse of e-bikes on public roads. The second rider, who managed to escape initially, later handed himself in at the local police station. Meanwhile, Kian Monks was detained at the scene by courageous bystanders until authorities arrived.
The legal proceedings concluded with Monks, of The Avenue in Wigan, receiving a custodial sentence of two years and three months. The charges to which he pleaded guilty included causing serious injury due to dangerous driving, operating a vehicle without a licence or valid insurance, and a series of offences relating to failing to remain at or report the scene of an accident.
Detective Constable Steve Pennington, who leads the Serious Collision Investigation Unit for Greater Manchester Police, commented on the gravity of the case: “This was a shocking incident where two individuals recklessly rode an e-bike through one of Wigan’s busiest areas with complete disregard for public safety. Their actions resulted in life-changing injuries for a woman who was simply going about her day. It is remarkable that she survived, having endured such significant trauma.”
He went on to underscore the dangers associated with improper e-bike use: “These machines are not mere toys; they are powerful vehicles that demand proper training, appropriate safety measures, and adherence to legal requirements. Neglecting these responsibilities does not only break the law but endangers lives.”
This case has prompted renewed calls for caution around the growing use of electric bikes, particularly in urban settings. Authorities are urging those who own e-bikes to ensure they are properly licensed, insured, and operated in accordance with road safety guidelines.
Margaret Scaldwell, who faces what doctors describe as lifelong physical and emotional scars, continues her recovery. The devastating ordeal serves as a stark warning about the risks of careless behaviour when using electric vehicles on public pathways and roads.
As this tragic event continues to reverberate within the Wigan community, local leaders are pushing for greater enforcement and public awareness surrounding e-bike legislation, aiming to prevent further tragedies of this nature. The court’s decision underscores the serious consequences for those who flout the law and endanger public safety.