GEORGE - A 16-year-old Quincy boy remains in critical condition at an area hospital after crashing his dirt bike Monday afternoon while riding on private property near George.

About 1 p.m. Monday, Grant County Sheriff's Deputies, Fire District 3 EMTs and Protection one Ambulance were called to 1005 Adams Road South near George. Deputies learned a 16-year-old male was riding a Yamaha dirt bike on private property and crashed into a horse pen fence, according to reports.

The boy, who was not wearing a helmet, was reportedly knocked unconscious and suffered a serious head injury. He regained consciousness but was moaning loudly and bleeding "profusely" from his mouth, according to information relayed by dispatch to emergency personnel.

The victim was flown by MedStar helicopter to Kadlec Medical Center in Richland and is listed in critical condition, according to the sheriff's office. The Quincy Valley Hospital trauma team was also activated but the decision was made to transport the victim to Richland.

"This is an awful reminder of the importance of wearing a helmet when driving or riding on motorcycles or other off-road vehicles," Sheriff Tom Jones said.