Mother Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter After E-Motorcycle Incident

Why this matters: This case highlights the potential dangers of e-motorcycles and the legal consequences for parents who allow their children to operate them illegally. It also underscores the growing need for clearer regulations and safety measures surrounding e-bikes and e-motorcycles.

The incident occurred on April 16 in Lake Forest, California, when Mejer's son allegedly struck Ed Ashman while he was walking home from work. The Surron e-motorcycle, capable of reaching speeds of 58 mph, was allegedly operated without the required license, registration, or insurance. Mejer initially told authorities that neither she nor her son owned the e-motorcycle, but prosecutors later revealed that she had previously admitted to purchasing it for him and knew he drove it recklessly. Deputies had warned her of potential criminal charges if she continued to allow him to ride it illegally. Following Ashman's death, Mejer's charges were upgraded to include involuntary manslaughter. She also faces misdemeanor charges of contributing to the delinquency of a minor and providing false information to a peace officer, as well as an infraction for permitting an unlicensed minor to drive a motor vehicle. The District Attorney's office has indicated that this is the third similar case recently prosecuted in Orange County. In response to rising safety concerns, the Newport-Mesa Unified School District is banning e-bikes and other motorized vehicles on campus for elementary and middle school students beginning in the 2026-27 school year. California is also considering new legislation, including AB 1942, which would require certain e-bikes to be registered with the DMV, and AB 1557, which focuses on safety by reducing the maximum speed of e-bike models that children are permitted to ride.

How to Prepare:

Who This Affects Most:

Mejer faces charges of involuntary manslaughter, child endangerment, accessory after the fact, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, providing false information to a peace officer, and permitting an unlicensed minor to drive a motor vehicle.

Riders of this class of e-motorcycle must be 16 years of age and possess a motorcycle license.

Do you think current laws are sufficient to regulate e-bike and e-motorcycle use? What more can be done to prevent similar tragedies? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!