California Parents Face Criminal Charges After Their 13-Year-Old Son Dies in Electric Motorcycle Crash

The parents of a 13-year-old California boy who died in an electric motorcycle crash are facing criminal charges, months after the fatal accident raised concerns about children riding powerful motorized vehicles on public roads.

Benson Nguyen died on May 7, 2026, after losing control of his E-Ride Pro SS 2.0 E-Moto in Garden Grove, California, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.

Prosecutors allege that Benson was riding at high speed shortly before the crash. He reportedly struck a raised center divider, was thrown from the motorcycle and collided with a concrete light pole. Data from a location-monitoring app allegedly showed that the vehicle was traveling at 43 mph at the time of the incident.

Benson’s father, Vu Thanh Nguyen, 56, has been charged with felony child endangerment and misdemeanor contributing to the delinquency of a minor. His mother, Hong Cuc Thi Nguyen, 49, faces a misdemeanor charge of child endangerment.

According to prosecutors, the father purchased a faster and more powerful electric motorcycle for his son despite previous warnings about the teenager’s riding. Authorities also allege that Benson had experienced earlier accidents and injuries, including a broken leg approximately six months before his death.

Investigators said the teenager had allegedly been seen performing wheelies and running red lights before the fatal crash. Prosecutors argue that the circumstances surrounding his access to the vehicle and his previous riding incidents are relevant to the charges against his parents.

Officials have also emphasized that the vehicle involved was classified as an electric motorcycle rather than a conventional electric bicycle. Under California law, operating this type of vehicle on public streets requires the appropriate motorcycle license and other legal requirements, including registration and insurance.

Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer said the case reflects growing concerns about the dangers posed by high-powered electric motorcycles when operated by inexperienced or underage riders.

The case is part of a broader effort by Orange County authorities to address injuries and deaths involving young riders and to examine whether parents or other adults should face criminal responsibility when they allegedly allow children to operate these vehicles unlawfully.

The parents are scheduled to be arraigned on November 12, 2026. The charges remain allegations, and neither parent has been convicted in connection with the case.

Source:  PEOPLE