First arrests made in connection to illegal ATV, dirt bike riding in Pittsburgh area

PITTSBURGH — Several arrests have been made in connection with off-road vehicles being recklessly driven on streets in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas, police announced Friday.

The arrests were made after a task force was created to investigate 911 calls and complaints from people about large groups riding ATVs and dirt bikes around the city.

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After months of monitoring the so-called “ride-outs,” the task force identified its first group of suspects believed to have either participated in, organized or promoted the activity.

Police said arrest warrants were served Thursday morning for the following people, on the following charges:

• Austin Ross, 22, of Oakmont: Charged with recklessly endangering another person, riot and disorderly conduct
• Zyshon Tot, 23, of McKees Rocks: Charged with recklessly endangering another person, riot and possessing instruments of crime
• Corey Doubt, 36, of Pittsburgh: Charged with recklessly endangering another person, disorderly conduct and riot.
• Johnnie Burton, 37, of McKeesport: Charged with endangering the welfare of children, riot and criminal conspiracy

“Some of the people needed to be arrested they were pretty reckless,” said Steven Danzig, who witnessed the ride-outs. “Sometimes it’s pretty dangerous. I’ve seen them around some obeyed the traffic rules but some got up on the sidewalks it was dangerous.”

One vehicle connected to the illegal ride-out activities in Allegheny County was confiscated, police said.

Authorities said additional arrests are anticipated as the task force continues its work.

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