Teen on Electric Motorcycle Critically Injures 81-Year-Old Pedestrian

Authorities say the teen fled the scene, leaving the elderly victim fighting for his life.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 12:21am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged electric motorcycle part, such as a shattered mirror or broken turn signal, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a serious collision involving an electric vehicle.The aftermath of a reckless electric motorcycle collision that left an elderly pedestrian fighting for his life.Lake Forest Today

An 81-year-old man is in critical condition after being struck by a 14-year-old boy riding an electric motorcycle near an Orange County high school. The teen suspect fled the scene, but was later identified and taken into custody on suspicion of fleeing the scene and reckless driving resulting in injury.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the growing safety concerns around high-powered electric vehicles, especially when operated by minors, and the need for greater public awareness and regulation around these emerging transportation technologies.

The details

The collision occurred on Thursday near Toledo Way and Ridge Route Drive in Lake Forest. The 81-year-old victim was crossing the street when he was hit by the teen, who was reportedly driving recklessly. The suspect fled the scene, leaving the elderly man with life-threatening injuries. Authorities later identified and apprehended the 14-year-old, who was not riding an e-bike but rather a high-speed Surron electric motorcycle, which can reach speeds of up to 68 mph and is not street legal.

  • The incident occurred shortly before 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, 2026.
  • The 14-year-old suspect was taken into custody the same day.

The players

Orange County Sheriff's Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the incident and apprehending the suspect.

Sgt. Lizbeth Gwisdalla

A public information officer with the Orange County Sheriff's Department who provided details about the case.

Surron

The manufacturer of the high-speed electric motorcycle involved in the collision, which is designed for off-road use and not street legal.

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What they’re saying

“The victim was just crossing the street and, whether it's a marked or unmarked crosswalk, he had the right of way. This was an unfortunate accident that could have been prevented if there was more awareness for e-bike safety.”

— Sgt. Lizbeth Gwisdalla, Public Information Officer, Orange County Sheriff's Department

“A small mistake all of the sudden turns into a really severe incident or crash and there is potential for serious injury. We really want the public to know what these e-motorcycles are capable of, that they are not intended for street use and shouldn't be in the hands of children.”

— Sgt. Lizbeth Gwisdalla, Public Information Officer, Orange County Sheriff's Department

What’s next

The case has not yet been submitted to the Orange County district attorney's office for filing consideration. The Sheriff's Department's Major Accident Investigation Team is continuing to investigate the crash.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for greater regulation and public education around the use of high-powered electric vehicles, especially when operated by minors. As these technologies become more prevalent, ensuring the safety of all road users, including vulnerable pedestrians, must be a top priority.