Scottsdale Man Arrested After Attempted Hit-and-Run on E-Bike Riding Kids

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – January 2, 2025 – In a disturbing incident in Scottsdale, Arizona, a 52-year-old man, identified as Richard Edmond Davidson, has been arrested for allegedly attempting to mow down children on e-bikes before stealing their phones to report their behavior to their parents.

The incident unfolded on December 27, 2024, when Davidson, driving with his son, spotted several kids on e-bikes weaving in and out of traffic. According to police reports, Davidson decided to “take care of it” by attempting to hit one of the children with his vehicle. After failing to make contact, he chased the children, assaulted one of them, and took their phones, claiming it was to inform their parents of their conduct.

The Scottsdale Police Department was alerted to the scene where they found Davidson, who showed no remorse for his actions. He was charged with multiple felonies including robbery, aggravated assault on a minor, and leaving the scene of an accident. His bond was set at $35,000.

Local residents and parents have expressed outrage and concern over the incident, highlighting the dangers of such confrontations between drivers and young cyclists. The event has sparked a conversation about road safety, the legality of vigilante actions, and the responsibilities of drivers in urban areas populated by increasing numbers of e-bike users.

Davidson’s actions have raised significant questions about community policing and the appropriate response to perceived misbehavior by minors in public spaces. The Scottsdale Police Department is continuing its investigation, urging anyone with further information to come forward.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for patience and legal recourse in handling disputes, particularly those involving the safety of children. The community is now looking at how to better manage the interaction between vehicular traffic and non-traditional modes of transportation like e-bikes.