Longboarder in critical condition after hitting head at Gage Park

A 24-year-old man is in hospital in critical condition after falling and hitting his head while riding a longboard in Gage Park overnight.

Emergency services were called to the park around 1:30 a.m. Monday for reports that the man had fallen and struck his head on the ground, said Hamilton police Const. Indy Bharaj.

Two other men were with him at the time of the fall.

Police arrived on scene to find the 24-year-old, who wasn't wearing a helmet, unconscious and bleeding from his nose, Bharaj said. There was blood pooled around him.

Police did first aid until paramedics arrived and took over treatment.

Hamilton Paramedic Service Supt. Dave Thompson said paramedics transported the man to hospital in serious condition. Later Monday morning, police said he remains in critical condition.

Police held the scene for several hours overnight. The City of Hamilton also attended for cleaning. The scene at the park was open by about 8 a.m.

Nicole O'Reilly is a crime and justice reporter at The Spectator. noreilly@thespec.com