Vietnam War Pilot, 81, Critically Injured In Crash With Teen On E-Motorcycle In OC

LAKE FOREST, CA — The Orange County community is rallying to support an 81-year-old man who was critically injured in Lake Forest after being struck by an off-highway motorcycle apparently driven by a 14-year-old boy.

Ed Ashman, who taught at El Toro High School, has remained in critical condition following the crash on Thursday, April 16, according to a GoFundMe page created for his family.

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Ashman was walking home from school when he was hit near Toledo Way and Ridge Route Drive, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Department.

Police said the boy struck him while riding what was originally reported as an e-bike but later found to be an off-highway motorcycle — a vehicle prohibited on public roadways in the United States.

The teen fled the scene but was later identified and arrested on suspicion of hit-and-run causing injury and reckless driving resulting in injury, deputies said.

"Our community was shaken this week by a tragic accident," the GoFundMe reads. "Ed is currently in critical condition and is fighting through a series of severe injuries."

"He is no stranger to bravery," the page continues, noting his service as a Vietnam War pilot. "After his time in the service, he brought that same dedication to the classroom."

To visit the Ashman family's GoFundMe, click here.