Teen arrested after OC electric motorcycle hit-and-run leaves teacher, 81, critical

Teen arrested in electric motorcycle crash

Police arrested a 14-year-old boy following a search warrant at a local residence.

LAKE FOREST, Calif. - A beloved community figure is fighting for his life following a violent hit-and-run collision Thursday afternoon near El Toro High School in Lake Forest.

The incident has sparked outrage among local students and renewed warnings from law enforcement regarding high-powered electric bikes and motorcycles.

What we know:

The collision occurred just before 4 p.m. Thursday near the intersection of Toledo Way and Ridge Route Drive. 

The victim, identified by students and a verified GoFundMe page as 81-year-old Ed Ashman—a veteran and frequent substitute teacher—was struck while walking across the street. 

Ashman was taken to the hospital and remains in critical condition.

Following witness descriptions, Orange County Sheriff's deputies served a search warrant at a Lake Forest home and took a 14-year-old into custody.

Investigators clarified that the vehicle involved was not a standard e-bike, but an electric motorcycle designed for off-highway use, lacking pedals and featuring a motor exceeding 750 watts. 

What we don't know:

While the teen was booked at Orange County Juvenile Hall, the specific list of formal charges has not been finalized, though it is expected to include hit-and-run.

Investigators have not yet confirmed the exact speed of the motorcycle at the moment of impact or whether the vehicle had been modified for increased performance.

It's unknown when the teen will appear in court.

What they're saying:

"It's kind of sad that he has to like get injured this way from a stupid kid on a bike," said one El Toro High School student.

"Generally, an electric motorcycle has a battery with 750 watt power or more. They have the capability of going 28 miles per hour or more," noted an Orange County Sheriff's Department Sergeant, adding that "parents really need to be careful when purchasing electric motorcycles for their kids."

What's next:

The Orange County Sheriff's Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) is currently processing the seized electric motorcycle and physical evidence from the scene.

The suspect remains in the juvenile justice system pending a court appearance.

What you can do:

Those wishing to support Ashman can visit his GoFundMe page.

Anyone with information regarding the crash is encouraged to contact the Orange County Sheriff's Department at (714) 647-7000. 

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can provide tips via OC Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS or through their website at ocsheriff.gov/occrimestoppers.