The family of an e-bike rider who was killed during a police pursuit in Escondido has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city and the officers involved. The incident occurred on June 10, 2026, when officers from the Escondido Police Department attempted to stop the rider for a traffic violation.
The rider, identified as 34-year-old Michael Torres, fled on his electric bicycle, leading officers on a brief chase through residential streets. During the pursuit, Torres lost control of his e-bike and collided with a parked vehicle, suffering fatal injuries.
The lawsuit, filed in San Diego County Superior Court, alleges that the officers used excessive force and failed to follow proper pursuit protocols, which directly led to Torres's death. The family's attorney stated that the pursuit was unnecessary and that officers should have de-escalated the situation rather than engaging in a high-speed chase.
The Escondido Police Department has not yet issued a public statement regarding the lawsuit. The case is expected to draw attention to the policies governing police pursuits in California, particularly involving vulnerable road users like e-bike riders.
The family is seeking unspecified damages for wrongful death and emotional distress.