Fatal e-motorcycle crash prompts manslaughter charge against California mother

A California mother is facing upgraded felony charges after her 14-year-old son allegedly caused a fatal crash while riding an illegal e-motorcycle that struck and killed an 81-year-old Vietnam War veteran in Lake Forest, California.

Prosecutors in Orange County District Attorney’s Office say Tommi Jo Mejer is now charged with involuntary manslaughter, child endangerment, accessory after the fact, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, providing false information to law enforcement, and permitting an unlicensed minor to operate a motor vehicle.

The case stems from an April 16 incident near El Toro High School, where Mejer’s son was allegedly riding a high-powered Surron e-motorcycle in the street and performing stunts when he struck 81-year-old Ed Ashman, a Vietnam veteran and substitute teacher.

Authorities say the teen fled the scene after the crash.

Ashman was critically injured and later died on April 30. His death has drawn widespread attention in the community, with tributes highlighting his military service and years spent mentoring students after retiring from the armed forces.

Investigators allege that Mejer had previously been warned about her son’s use of the vehicle and its illegality for his age.

According to prosecutors, she admitted in an earlier interaction with deputies that she had purchased the e-motorcycle for her son and was aware he rode it recklessly.

Officials say she was also informed that allowing her son to operate the vehicle could lead to criminal liability, as riders must be at least 16 years old to legally operate such high-powered e-motorcycles under California regulations.

Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer condemned the incident, stating that the victim, described as a decorated veteran who survived combat missions in Vietnam, lost his life due to what he called preventable negligence involving an underage rider on a dangerous vehicle.

He added that the case reflects a broader issue of parental responsibility, arguing that adults must be held accountable when minors are allowed to engage in illegal and unsafe behavior that endangers others.

If convicted on all counts, Mejer could face up to seven years and eight months in state prison.

A fundraiser has been launched to support funeral and medical expenses for Ashman, who is being remembered by family, friends, and former students as a dedicated veteran, educator, and mentor who remained active in his community well into retirement.