Teen Arrested for Injuring 81-Year-Old Veteran in Illegal Electric Motorcycle Incident in Orange County, California
A 14-year-old boy was arrested by the police after a search warrant was executed at a local residence in Orange County, California. The arrest was made in connection to an incident where the boy was allegedly riding a high-powered electric motorcycle that struck an 81-year-old veteran and substitute teacher in Lake Forest. The victim, Ed Ashman, suffered critical injuries and underwent surgery, remaining in critical condition. The electric motorcycle, capable of speeds up to 58 mph, required a license, registration, and insurance, which the teen did not possess. The boy's mother, Tommi Jo Mejer, was arrested and charged with felony child endangerment and accessory after the fact. Prosecutors revealed that Mejer had been warned by deputies in 2025 about the illegal nature of the vehicle and the potential consequences. Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that parents who allow their children to ride illegal vehicles are putting them and others at risk. Mejer is scheduled to appear in court in October and could face up to six years and eight months in prison if convicted. A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Ashman's medical recovery, and anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Orange County Sheriff's Department.