Rage-Fueled Crash: Driver Hits Boy, Then Learns Mistake

In Bay City, Michigan, a 19-year-old driver, Owen Wheeler, is facing charges including assault with intent to murder after allegedly striking a 14-year-old boy, Bentley Burkhart, with his truck. The incident occurred on October 22 around 4:45 p.m. on the Bay City Railtrail. Burkhart was riding his mini-bike when he was intentionally hit from behind by Wheeler's pickup truck traveling at approximately 40 mph. Witnesses reported Wheeler was screaming profanities at Burkhart before the collision. The impact launched Burkhart from his bike, resulting in two spinal compression fractures and significant pain. Wheeler fled the scene and abandoned his truck, but police, aided by surveillance footage and witness tips, identified him. Wheeler later turned himself in on November 4. He had reportedly bragged about the incident on social media but also falsely claimed his truck was stolen. The victim, Burkhart, was hospitalized but released the following day, though his family remains concerned about his long-term recovery.