Police are hunting the masked rider of an electric bicycle that hit and seriously injured a two-year-old child outside a school.
Paramedics airlifted the victim to hospital after being called to Pathfields Road, Clacton-on-Sea, at about 21:00 BST on Thursday.
The bike was described by Essex Police as having a "scrambler design with red handlebars", and its rider was wearing a balaclava and hoodie.
District commander Ch Insp Stuart Austin said officers were "working at pace" to find the suspect, who fled the scene.
Officers spoke to several witnesses at the scene, outside Clacton Coastal Academy, as part of their investigation.
"I understand the local community will be extremely concerned following this incident," Austin said.
"We know the dangerous and anti-social use of e-bikes, e-scooters and motorcycles impacts residents across town. We are committed to tackling the issue."
People with any information have been urged to contact the force.
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