Young Motorcyclist Airlifted After Crash at Hanna Ranch

An 11-year-old Novato boy was airlifted to an Oakland hospital Saturday afternoon after a collision of off-road motorcycles at a popular but illegal riding area near highways 101 and 37, police and fire officials said.

The boy was riding his motorcycle while his parents were present at Hanna Ranch, an undeveloped area south of , when he was struck by an adult on another motorcycle at about 1:45 p.m., said Novato Fire Battalion Chief Jeff Veliquette. The boy suffered abdominal injuries and was taken to Oakland Children’s Hospital by the emergency medical helicopter, he said.

Novato police Sgt. Earl Titman said investigators are checking into possible penal code and vehicle code violations in relation to the incident.

Veliquette said the boy was knocked into the air and slammed onto the ground after he was broadsided by the other rider. The extent of the boy’s injuries was unknown, he said, but paramedics said the boy was conscious and talking to them before he was loaded onto the helicopter. He was wearing a helmet when he was hit, Veliquette said.

Novato fire responded with two engines, a rescue company, paramedics and a battalion chief.

Hanna Ranch has been a destination for off-road riders for decades despite that “no trespassing” signs are posted, Titman said. “We’re out there regularly,” he said. “We end up having to respond after incidents like this, but we’re also out there while on regular patrols.”

The adult complained of shoulder injuries but refused treatment, Titman said.