A California mother appeared in court on Tuesday facing involuntary manslaughter charges after her 14-year-old son fatally struck an 81-year-old Vietnam veteran with an e-motorcycle.
Court Appearance
Tommi Jo Mejer, 51, did not enter a plea during the short hearing. Her attorneys stated she remains deeply anguished by the incident and extends her sincerest condolences to the victim’s family. “This has been devastating for everyone,” the lawyers added, noting it was too early for further comments.
The Fatal Crash
On April 16 at around 4 p.m., the teenager allegedly performed wheelies on a 2025 Surron Ultra Bee e-motorcycle—capable of speeds up to 50 mph—when he collided with Ed Ashman in Lake Forest. Ashman, walking home from his job as a substitute teacher, suffered critical injuries and passed away at a hospital on April 30.
Deputies from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office visited Mejer’s home post-crash, where she reportedly denied owning or allowing her son to possess an e-bike.
Prosecutor’s Case
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer emphasized that body-worn camera footage captures Mejer acknowledging the vehicle’s dangers and illegality. “She provided the motorcycle, knew her son could not legally possess or ride it, and ignored prior warnings,” Spitzer stated.
Prosecutors note Mejer contacted authorities last year after someone posted video of her son riding recklessly. She admitted buying the e-bike but received warnings that she could face charges if she permitted its use. California law requires e-motorcycle riders to be at least 16, hold a motorcycle license, and carry insurance on public roads; otherwise, use is restricted to private property or off-highway areas.
Mejer faces felony charges of child endangerment and accessory after the fact, plus misdemeanor contributing to the delinquency of a minor, an infraction for lending a vehicle to an unlicensed driver, and providing false information to officers. Conviction on all counts could result in over seven years in prison.
She posted $100,000 bond and was released pending arraignment on June 30. This marks the third time Spitzer’s office has charged a parent this year for allowing minors to ride e-motorcycles illegally.
Victim’s Legacy
Ashman, a Vietnam veteran who flew combat missions, later dedicated his retirement to substitute teaching at El Toro High School. An online fundraiser describes him as “the center of a beautiful family—a devoted husband, father of three, and proud grandfather.” It highlights his service: “An American hero who survived Vietnam could not survive crossing the street due to a child on an illegal e-motorcycle.”
“Parents must hold children accountable; otherwise, we will hold them responsible for harm caused by illegal vehicles,” Spitzer declared. The fundraiser has raised over $120,000 for funeral costs.
