Police: Speed was factor in teen's death in Port Richmond

PORT RICHMOND - March 13, 2012 (WPVI) -- Police say speed appears to be to blame for the death of teenager riding a dirt bike Tuesday in Port Richmond.

According to police, the incident took place was around 3:20 p.m. near the intersection of Frankford Avenue and Butler Street.

Authorities tell Action News 14-year-old Jermaine Alexander was operating a Honda dirt bike at a very high rate of speed northbound along Frankford Avenue.

At that moment, the driver of another vehicle that was heading southbound along Frankford attempted to execute a left turn onto Butler.

Police say the bike then struck the other vehicle.

Alexander was thrown from the bike and died at the scene.

Late Tuesday, Philadelphia police told Action News this is no longer a hit and run case as it was reported to be throughout the afternoon and evening..

The investigation into whether or not charges or citations will be warranted is ongoing.

Shortly after the incident, the family of the victim told Action News they saw a police car chasing Alexander and striking the teen. Both police and another witness say there was no such incident and no pursuit.

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philadelphia, pennsylvania, port richmond, hit and run, local/state

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