The community of Turlock is mourning the death of Turlock High freshman Jameson Hendrix following a fatal collision involving the teen’s electronic motorcycle.
The Turlock Police Department received a report of a collision involving a vehicle and a juvenile riding an electric motorcycle at around 5:30 p.m. Saturday in the area of Tokay Avenue and Old Vineyard Road in east Turlock.
Officers arrived and located the 14-year-old boy who was not breathing. Officers immediately began CPR and continued lifesaving efforts until fire personnel arrived. Despite their efforts, the teen was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. At this time, investigators do not believe drugs or alcohol were a factor in the collision.
The Turlock Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team was activated and has taken over the investigation. The circumstances leading up to the collision remain under investigation. Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact Officer Allison at (209) 664-7398.
A GoFundMe account has been created to help the family with funeral expenses.
“Jameson was a free-spirited, polite young man with a big heart. He was loved by his parents, siblings, family, friends, and so many others whose lives he touched. At only 14, he had his entire life ahead of him, making this loss incredibly difficult to comprehend,” posted the account creators.
To view the GoFundMe account, visit: https://bit.ly/3TGvOz0
This tragedy is also an important reminder for parents and guardians about the very real risks associated with e-motos and similar high-powered electric vehicles, said the police department.
California divides e‑bikes into three classes based on speed and whether the motor assists without pedaling. Class 1 and Class 2 e‑bikes, which top out at 20 mph, can be ridden by anyone 16 or older. Class 3 bikes, which can reach 28 mph, require riders to be at least 16 and to wear a helmet. All e‑bike riders under 18 must wear helmets, regardless of class. E‑bikes are allowed on most roads and bike lanes, but cities and counties may restrict them on certain paths or trails.
Both e‑bikes and scooters must follow basic traffic laws: ride in the same direction as traffic, use lights at night, and avoid carrying passengers unless the device is designed for it.
