05/02/2026
Absolutely tragic!!!
05.01.2026 | 1:30PM | LAKE FOREST — 81-year-old Orange County veteran dies weeks after crash involving teen on e-motorcycle.
The Lake Forest community is grieving the death of Ed Ashman, an 81-year-old Vietnam veteran and well-known educator, who succumbed to injuries after being struck by a teenager riding an illegal electric motorcycle last month.
What Happened:
The crash occurred April 16 near Toledo Way and Ridge Route Drive, close to El Toro High School, where Ashman worked as a substitute teacher. Authorities say he was crossing the street when a 14-year-old boy riding a Surron Ultra Bee e-motorcycle—reportedly while performing wheelies—hit him and fled the scene.
The high-powered bike, capable of speeds up to 58 mph, was being operated without a license, registration, or insurance, all of which are required.
Legal Developments:
The teen’s mother, Tommi Jo Mejer, has been arrested and faces charges including felony child endangerment and accessory after the fact. Prosecutors say she had previously been warned by deputies in June 2025 that the bike was illegal for her son to ride. Despite that, she allegedly continued allowing him to use it and later denied ownership during the investigation.
Community Response:
Ashman’s family shared the news of his passing through a GoFundMe page, expressing gratitude for the support they’ve received and noting that donations will help ease the financial burden of funeral and medical costs.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer strongly criticized the circumstances, highlighting the tragic contrast between Ashman’s survival of combat missions in Vietnam and the way his life ended. He also warned that parents who allow minors to operate illegal motorized vehicles could face serious legal consequences, calling the issue increasingly widespread.
What Remains Unclear:
It is not yet known whether the teen will face additional or more serious charges now that the case has become a fatality. Due to laws protecting minors, details about his case have not been released.
Wider Context:
Officials say this is the third similar case recently prosecuted in Orange County, with related incidents reported in Yorba Linda and Huntington Beach.
In response to growing safety concerns, the Newport-Mesa Unified School District recently announced a policy banning elementary and middle school students from bringing e-bikes or other motorized vehicles to campus starting in the 2026–27 school year. High school students will still be allowed to bring e-bikes, but only if they complete safety training and follow specific rules.
What's Next?:
Mejer is expected back in court in October. If convicted on all charges, including contributing to the delinquency of a minor and providing false information to law enforcement, she could face up to six years and eight months in prison.
How to Help:
Donations are still being accepted through a verified GoFundMe page to support Ashman’s family. Authorities are also asking anyone with information about the hit-and-run or illegal e-motorcycle use in the area to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department or submit an anonymous tip through OC Crime Stoppers.
