Perth Halts E-Scooter Rentals After Fatal Accident; Calls for Stricter Regulations Intensify
June 5, 2025
Deputy Lord Mayor Brian Reynolds stated that the suspension of e-scooter rentals was an appropriate response to the tragedy, extending condolences to Phan's family.
WA Premier Roger Cook has backed the council's decision, emphasizing the necessity for safety regulations for e-scooters in urban areas.
The City of Perth has suspended e-scooter rentals following the tragic death of Thanh Phan, a pedestrian who was struck by an e-scooter on May 31, 2025.
Phan, 51, suffered critical injuries after being hit by an e-scooter operated by 24-year-old Alicia Kemp, who was reportedly intoxicated at the time.
After being hospitalized, Thanh Phan succumbed to his injuries on June 3, 2025, due to a brain bleed caused by the collision at the intersection of Murray and King Streets.
Alicia Kemp, a British backpacker, was arrested and found to be under the influence of alcohol; she has since been charged with dangerous driving occasioning death and bodily harm.
Kemp was allegedly riding the e-scooter at speeds of up to 25 km/h on the footpath, and her charges were escalated following Phan's death.
In response to this incident, WA Police will intensify enforcement of existing road laws for electric rideable devices, focusing on safety and compliance.
Opposition road safety spokeswoman Julie Freeman has called for stronger regulations for e-scooters in Western Australia, arguing that current laws are insufficient.
Phan's family has urged for stricter governance and regulations on hired e-scooters to enhance safety and prevent future tragedies.
E-scooter hire companies Beam and Neuron Mobility have expressed their support for the city's decision and are committed to prioritizing safety in their operations.
The WA Police are conducting a statewide crackdown on e-scooters and other electric rideable devices to address growing safety concerns.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site for latest headlines • Jun 5, 2025
Major update after e-scooter tragedy
WAtoday • Jun 5, 2025
Perth council urged to make e-scooter ban permanent as police launch crackdown