What's Happening?
Ed Ashman, an 81-year-old retired Marine Corps captain and substitute teacher, has died following a hit-and-run incident involving a 14-year-old on an electric motorcycle in Lake Forest, California. The collision occurred on April 16 near El Toro High
School, where Ashman was a substitute teacher. The teen, who was performing wheelies on a Surron Ultra Bee e-motorcycle, struck Ashman and fled the scene. The vehicle, capable of reaching speeds of 58 mph, was operated without a license, registration, or insurance. The teen's mother, Tommi Jo Mejer, faces multiple felony charges, including involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment, after allegedly ignoring police warnings about the illegal vehicle and initially lying to investigators. The District Attorney, Todd Spitzer, has vowed to hold parents accountable for such incidents.
Why It's Important?
This incident highlights the growing concern over the use of high-powered electric motorcycles by minors, which poses significant safety risks. The case underscores the legal responsibilities of parents in preventing illegal vehicle use by their children. The death of Ed Ashman, a respected veteran and educator, has sparked community outrage and calls for stricter regulations on e-motorcycles. The legal proceedings against Mejer could set a precedent for similar cases, emphasizing the accountability of parents in ensuring the safety of their children and others. The incident also reflects broader safety concerns, prompting legislative reviews of e-bike regulations in California.
What's Next?
Tommi Jo Mejer is scheduled to be arraigned on May 21 in Newport Beach, facing a potential maximum sentence of seven years and eight months in state prison if convicted on all counts. Meanwhile, two California bills are under review, aiming to regulate e-bikes more strictly. AB 1942 proposes DMV registration and license plates for certain e-bikes, while AB 1557 seeks to reduce the maximum speed of e-bikes for children. If passed, these regulations would take effect on January 1, 2027. The community continues to support the Ashman family through a GoFundMe page for funeral and medical expenses.
