Four Pepperdine University students killed in car crash on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu
MALIBU, Calif. (KABC) — Tragedy struck on Tuesday night when four women were fatally struck by a car while standing along the side of Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. School officials from Pepperdine University say that the victims may have been students at the university.
According to an update posted on Pepperdine’s website, university officials have “reason to believe” that the victims were Seaver College students. The university is currently in contact with authorities and will assist with notifying the victims’ family members once confirmation has been made. More information will be provided to the Pepperdine community in due course.
The crash occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday in the 21500 block of Pacific Coast Highway. The driver, identified as 22-year-old Fraser Bohm, lost control of his vehicle and crashed into parked cars twice, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Tragically, when Bohm hit the second set of parked vehicles, the four females standing on the side of the road were fatally struck.
Two other victims were rushed to an unknown condition hospital.
Initial reports suggest that drugs and alcohol were not factors in the crash, as a sobriety test administered to Bohm yielded negative results. However, during a press conference the following afternoon, Lost Hills Captain Jennifer Seetoo revealed that Bohm has been arrested for vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence. Details surrounding the arrest were not disclosed, but authorities have stated that the investigation is ongoing.
Residents in the area have expressed concerns about speeding along that stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway. Joan Zoloth of Malibu stated, “Since COVID there has been an increase of incredible racing up and down this highway, all night long.” Investigations are being conducted to determine if two drivers were street racing at the time of the collision. The possibility of a “speed contest” has not been ruled out.
The Pacific Coast Highway remains closed between Las Flores Canyon Road and Carbon Canyon Road. There is currently no estimate for when it will reopen. The Los Angeles County Fire Department has described the scene as “metal carnage” and expressed their deep sorrow at the loss of four lives.
Pepperdine University and the Malibu community are left devastated by this tragic incident. As they come together to mourn and support each other through this heartbreaking time, they turn to faith and unity for solace amidst despair.