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Amazon halts e-bike sales in California amid fatal crashes
The move comes after several deaths and a push from OC DA Todd Spitzer who said he is going after parents for the illegal behavior of their kids.
Amazon has announced it will no longer allow the sale of high-speed e-bikes in California that do not meet state legal requirements.
What we know:
The decision follows a series of fatal accidents involving teenagers and a growing legal push by local officials to hold parents criminally responsible for providing illegal electric motorcycles to minors. The company stated it cannot verify the age or licensing of buyers.
According to California Attorney General Rob Bonta, any bike exceeding 28 mph with pedal assistance, or 20 mph with throttle assistance, is legally classified as a moped or motorcycle. These vehicles require DMV registration, insurance, and a motorcycle license to operate legally.
Fatal timeline
Timeline:
Recent events in Southern California have highlighted the dangers of these high-speed vehicles:
- Last week: A 13-year-old boy died in Garden Grove after crashing an electric motorcycle. Investigators determined the teenager was traveling 35 mph when he struck a center median on Magnolia Street. Police confirmed the bike was not street legal.
- Lake Forest tragedy: Ed Ashman, an 81-year-old Vietnam War veteran and substitute teacher, died May 1 after being struck by a teenager on a high-speed bike.
- Recent arrest: Orange County prosecutors arrested 50-year-old Tommi Jo Mejer following the fatal hit-and-run involving her teenage son. Her charges include felony involuntary manslaughter.
What they're saying:
"I am going to prosecute parents to the fullest extent of the law," Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer said. "Whether you like it or not, we're responsible for the conduct." He further described the high-speed bikes as "a loaded weapon."
Meanwhile, California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a consumer alert labeling it "Too Fast, Too Furious."
PREVIOUS COVERAGE:
- 13-year-old killed after losing control of electric motorcycle in Garden Grove
- OC veteran, 81, dies weeks after being struck by teen on e-motorcycle
What's next:
Tommi Jo Mejer is currently out on bail while facing several felony and misdemeanor charges related to the fatal crash involving her son. While the 14-year-old boy has also been arrested, the District Attorney’s office cannot discuss the specifics of his case because he is a minor.
The Source: This report is based on statements from the California Attorney General, the Orange County District Attorney, and FOX 11 field reporting as of Monday, May 11, 2026.