Pedestrian Ed Ashman Hurt in Lake Forest Crash; Teen Arrested
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (April 20, 2026) — Ed Ashman, 81, was severely injured Thursday in Lake Forest when a teen riding a Surron electric motorcycle struck him in a hit-and-run crash near Toledo Way and Ridge Route Drive.
The elderly man, who was a substitute teacher at El Toro High School, remains hospitalized, and the 14-year-old boy was arrested. According to a GoFundMe page supporting the victim, he remains in critical condition following the crash on Thursday, April 16.
Off-Road Motorcycle Hits Pedestrian
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, the pedestrian was struck by the teenager while as he crossed the road while walking home from nearby El Toro High School. Meanwhile, the teenage boy was riding a vehicle designed for off-highway riding that is not legal on public roadways in California.
The boy allegedly struck the elderly man and fled the scene; however, police later located the suspect, and he was arrested on suspicion of hit-and-run causing an injury as well as reckless driving that results in an injury, police said. The boy was booked at Orange County Juvenile Hall
The injured man, who was a Vietnam War pilot, was retired, but also worked part-time as a substitute teacher.
“He is a devoted husband, a father of three, and a proud grandfather, according to a statement on his GoFundMe page. “Right now, his family is by his side in the hospital, navigating a nightmare that no one could have prepared for.”
The investigation into the crash is ongoing and headed up by the Sheriff’s Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team. Witnesses are encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Department at (714) 647-7000.
Got Legal Questions? Get Answers: 1-800-208-3538
When it matters most, trust Attorney James Johnson at Johnson Attorneys Group. We are a personal injury law firm serving clients who have been injured throughout California due to negligent motorists. If you were hurt in this collision, call 1-(800) 208-3538. We will request the police report, and the attorney will discuss your options. You are under no obligation to hire us, and there is no cost unless we win your case. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
