Ojai man on mobility scooter dies after crash
An 80-year-old Ojai man who was struck by a vehicle Saturday while riding his three-wheel mobility scooter later died from his injuries, authorities said.
Ventura County Sheriff’s officials said they learned of David Whalen’s death Monday but it was not immediately clear when he died after being hospitalized.
The crash was reported around 3:40 p.m. Saturday near Grand Avenue and Lion Street in Ojai, according to Ventura County Fire Department reports.
Ventura County Sheriff’s Capt. Rob Yoos said at the time the scooter rider, later identified as Whalen, suffered a head injury and visible abrasions to his arms. The injuries were not initially considered life-threatening but because of Whalen’s age and out of an abundance of caution, the sheriff’s Copter 9 flew him from Ojai to Ventura County Medical Center.
Sheriff’s deputies also responded to the scene. The sheriff’s office is contracted to provide police services in Ojai.
Sgt. Greg Cadman said Tuesday the crash investigation is still ongoing. The driver of the vehicle did stop and cooperate with deputies, he said, and drugs and alcohol were not considered a factor in the incident.