Rising Surf Star And Grandson Of Famed Master Shaper Killed In OC E-Bike Crash

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA — The grandson of an iconic Hawaiian surfboard shaper died after he was struck by a vehicle while riding an e-bike in Huntington Beach.

Huntington Beach surfer Kolby Aipa died in the crash that reported just after 10 p.m. Saturday on Pacific Coast Highway and Seapoint Street, the Huntington Beach Police Department reported. He was 20.

According to police, an unidentified man from Huntington Beach was driving a Toyota Tacoma south on Pacific Coast Highway with Aipa on an e-bike hanging onto it.

When the driver lost control of the Tacoma, the e-bike and truck collided, police said. It was not clear how the truck lost control.

Aipa was injured and later died of his injuries.

Aipa was the grandson of iconic Hawaiian shaper Ben Aipa, known for introducing instrumental surfboard designs to the sport in the 70s. He is widely regarded as "surf royalty" among the surfing community, from Hawaii to Huntington Beach.

According to Surfer.com, Kolby was an up-and-coming surfer who held several brand sponsors including AVVA, Dakine, Cobian footwear and more. He was a member of the Huntington Beach Board Riders Club, as well.

"This is the hardest post we will ever make," a tribute from the official Aipa Surf Company account read. "We are completely heartbroken. We wanted to thank all the visitors, supporters, food deliveries, donations, flowers, cards, countless stories and photos his friends have shared with us, Drs and nurses have taken care of our sweet boy."

"The HB community and everyone around the world have touched our hearts in an unimaginable way," the statement continued. "Thank you for loving our boy."