The surfing community of Huntington Beach is mourning the loss of Kolby Aipa, a 20-year-old emerging talent and member of a storied surfing dynasty. Aipa, the grandson of surfboard shaping legend Ben Aipa, was killed in a tragic e-bike accident last Saturday night, as confirmed by authorities.
Aipa succumbed to injuries sustained when he lost control of his electric bicycle while holding onto the back of a gray Toyota Tacoma, driven by a 20-year-old acquaintance. KTLA reported that the accident occurred on Pacific Coast Highway near Seapoint Street in Huntington Beach. Despite rapid response from paramedics, Aipa passed away in the hospital on Tuesday following the incident.
Huntington Beach Police Department has stated that impairment was not a factor for the driver of the Tacoma in the crash, and as of now, no arrests have been made. The case continues to be under investigation, and officials have requested that any witnesses step forward with information that may assist in the case by contacting Traffic Investigator S. Flynn, as noted in a police department release.
Kolby Aipa was also recognized for his contributions to the local surfing scene, including sponsorships from major surf brands and involvement as a member of the Huntington Beach Board Riders club. A statement on a GoFundMe page, which has been established to support the Aipa family, reflects on his impact: "Kolby always had a way with touching the lives of whoever he met. His acts of kindness and caring was his gift of Aloha to friends and strangers alike. To everyone that reads this…pass his Aloha on. So, how Kolby treated you, treat others in that same way…" The campaign, according to a New Santa Ana article, has already garnered over $72K in donations.
In remembrance of the young surfer, Aipa Surf, where the legacy of his grandfather Ben lives on, posted a heartfelt tribute expressing their deep sorrow and celebrating the life of their "sweet boy." The family-owned surf brand encapsulated Kolby's spirit in a social media post, "Thank you for loving our boy. Kolby always had a way with touching the lives of whoever he met. His acts of kindness and caring was his gift of Aloha to friends and strangers alike. To everyone that reads this… pass his Aloha on. So, how Kolby treated you, treat others in that same way…In this you are continuing his legacy of Aloha. And you too can be like Kolby." The sentiment echoed across the surfing community, as signified in KTLA's coverage.
