A 13-year-old boy was killed last week after crashing an electric motorcycle on a busy street in Southern California, authorities said.
The fatal collision occurred shortly before 10 p.m. on May 7 on the 13100 block of Magnolia Street in Garden Grove, police shared in a statement Friday.
Officials said the young teen—who has since been identified as Benson Nguyen of Santa Ana—was traveling at about 35 mph when he struck the center median for unknown reasons, lost control of the e-motorcycle, and was ejected from the vehicle.
Nguyen suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Garden Grove Police Sgt. Nick Jensen told NTD via email on Wednesday that Nguyen had been wearing a standard bicycle helmet at the time of the crash, but it was not designed for motorcycle use.
“I wouldn’t call it ‘proper’ as these e-motorcycles can go quite a bit faster than what those helmets are made for,” Jensen said, noting that the electric vehicle was not street legal.
According to the police department’s e-bike safety pamphlet, electric bicycles are categorized into three classes and are limited to maximum speeds of either 20 mph or 28 mph, depending on the classification. E-bikes feature fully operable pedals and do not require a driver’s license to operate.
However, the pamphlet states that electric motorcycles, which can exceed 28 mph and are not equipped with pedals, do require a driver’s license, as well as a license plate and proof of insurance. E-motorcycles cannot be operated on public roads and also require Department of Transportation-approved helmets.
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing, and authorities have asked anyone who witnessed the collision or has video of the incident to contact lead investigator Michael Lang by calling 714-741-5823 or emailing [email protected].
Following the incident, Nguyen’s loved ones left flowers and candles near the site of the crash. A GoFundMe page was also set up to raise money for funeral expenses, memorial arrangements, and other needs.
The fundraiser’s organizer, the Tyun Yee Tong Dragon and Lion Dancing Association, a dance troupe Nguyen was a member of, said the teen’s death was “an unimaginable loss for his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
“Benson was more than a teammate — he was family, a brother, and a bright light within our community,” the tribute reads. “Benson’s energy, kindness, and passion touched everyone around him. He brought joy, laughter, and dedication to our team, and his presence will forever remain a part of us.”