California Parents Face Jail Time After Teen Son's Fatal E-Bike Crash
Authorities charge parents with child endangerment following the May death of their 13-year-old son, who crashed his $4,299 electric motorbike at high speed.
A 13-year-old boy died in a high-speed electric bicycle crash in Garden Grove, California, in May, and his parents are now facing charges of child endangerment. Benson Nguyen of Santa Ana was killed when he crashed his Eride Pro SS 2.0 electric motorbike, which cost $4,299, at an estimated 45 mph.
The autopsy revealed severe injuries sustained by the teen in the fatal collision. His parents, Vu Thanh Nguyen, 56, and Hong Cuc Thi Nguyen, 49, have been charged in connection with the incident. Prosecutors stated that approximately six months before his death, Benson Nguyen had broken his leg while riding a different motorbike.
Investigators noted that Benson was wearing a helmet during the crash, but it was a traditional bicycle helmet, not designed for the speeds of a motorbike. Online videos showed the teenager frequently engaging in risky behavior on electric motorbikes, including balancing on the rear of a bike and riding without a helmet in some instances. One clip captured him riding on the back of an electric motorbike while not wearing protective gear.
Prosecutors have indicated that the parents could face jail time due to the charges. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Benson's death and the parents' alleged role is ongoing. The incident highlights concerns about the operation of powerful electric bikes by minors and the responsibilities of parents in ensuring the safety of their children when using such vehicles. Investigators are looking into the specific circumstances that led to the crash and the allegations of child endangerment against the parents. 
