Lindy Douglas, Joell Banks Obituary, Death – Authorities in Riviera Beach have identified the two teenagers involved in a Saturday afternoon crash that tragically resulted in the passing of one of them and left the other with injuries. The incident, which involved a mini bike and a car, occurred on West Blue Heron Boulevard and remains under investigation by local police.
According to a statement released by the Riviera Beach Police Department (RBPD), officers were called to the 600 block of West Blue Heron Boulevard shortly before 3 p.m. after a motorist reported a serious collision. When emergency personnel arrived, they found two teenagers who had been riding a small, non-street-legal mini bike that had collided with a car.
Investigators said that 16-year-old Lindy Douglas, a resident of Riviera Beach, was operating the mini bike, and 17-year-old Joell Banks of Loxahatchee was riding as a passenger. The teens were traveling eastbound along Blue Heron Boulevard when, for reasons that have not yet been determined, the bike veered into the westbound lanes and into the path of an oncoming Nissan Sentra.
The Nissan, according to police, was traveling above the posted speed limit when the collision occurred. The impact caused both Douglas and Banks to be thrown from the mini bike. First responders quickly provided emergency care at the scene before both teenagers were taken to St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach.
Sadly, authorities confirmed that Douglas passed away later that afternoon from injuries sustained in the crash. Banks was treated for minor injuries and is expected to recover. The driver of the Nissan was not hurt and remained at the scene, cooperating with investigators.
Police also noted that neither of the teens was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, and the mini bike they were riding was not approved for use on public roadways. These factors, officials said, may have contributed to the severity of the outcome.
The Riviera Beach Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Investigation Unit is leading the investigation, which remains active. As of now, no charges have been filed, and police have stated that the driver of the Nissan is not currently facing any citations in connection with the incident. Investigators are continuing to analyze evidence from the crash site, including roadway markings, vehicle data, and witness statements, to determine exactly what led to the collision.
The area where the accident occurred, West Blue Heron Boulevard, is a busy multi-lane roadway that connects several neighborhoods in Riviera Beach. Residents have described it as a stretch often used by both cars and pedestrians, with heavy traffic during most hours of the day. In the wake of this incident, some community members have expressed concern about youth safety and the use of small motorized bikes on public roads.
Police officials are reminding parents and young riders that mini bikes, dirt bikes, and similar small recreational vehicles are not permitted on city streets. They emphasized the importance of wearing protective gear, including helmets, and following all safety regulations designed to prevent serious injuries.
Community members have shared condolences and support for the families of both teens, particularly for the family of Lindy Douglas. Friends described Lindy as energetic and friendly, someone who enjoyed spending time outdoors and with friends.
The Riviera Beach Police Department has encouraged anyone with information or video footage related to the crash to contact investigators as they continue piecing together the events that led to the tragedy.
As the investigation moves forward, local officials are urging drivers and riders alike to remain alert, obey speed limits, and exercise caution on busy roads. This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of how crucial safety awareness and responsible vehicle operation are — especially for young riders — to help prevent future accidents and protect lives on the road.
