New London - A New London police officer sustained minor injuries on Friday after being struck by a dirt bike.

The incident occurred at 9:49 p.m. Friday when police responded to multiple reports of dirt bikes and all-terrain vehicles driving erratically around the city.

Multiple dirt bikes and ATVs were seen in the area of 442 Colman St., police said in a statement. The operator of one of the dirt bikes drove towards an officer, who was on foot, and made contact, police said. The rider fell off the bike and fled on foot.

The rider was not caught.

The officer was treated and released from Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. Police said they are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the operator of the dirt bike. Police released of photo of a Yamaha dirt bike with yellow and white trim.

The problem with dirt bikes driving erratically around the city is not a new one. In 2018, the New London City Council passed an ordinance that authorizes police to fine riders up to $2,000 and bans gasoline retailers from selling gas to riders. Unregistered ATVs, dirt bikes and pocket bikes are prohibited from public streets and parks, schools and sidewalks and private property without permission of the owner.

Anyone with information on Friday’s incident is asked to contact police at 860-447-5280 or submit anonymous information by texting “NLPDTip,” plus the information to Tip411.