Two people were killed when a McLaren crashed into a tree and burst into flames overnight in Irvine, California, according to the Irvine Police Department. The incident occurred shortly after midnight at the intersection of Culver Drive and Deerfield Avenue, with the driver of the 2019 McLaren losing control, veering off the road, and striking a tree, which caused the vehicle to split in half and catch fire.
The crash claimed the life of James Wehr, a 27-year-old car influencer and co-founder of South OC Cars and Coffee, a weekly event in San Clemente that has grown into the world’s largest weekly car show. The second victim, whose identity remains unconfirmed, was also inside the vehicle. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with one stating, The whole car is just gone,
after hearing a skrrrr and then a big boom.
Victims Identified: James Wehr and an Unnamed Second Passenger
James Wehr, described by the Irvine Police Department as the driver of the McLaren, was identified by the Orange County Register. His father, Simon Wehr, co-founded South OC Cars and Coffee, which has become a staple for car enthusiasts in Southern California. The event, held in San Clemente, draws hundreds of luxury and classic vehicles, with Wehr playing a central role in its growth. A family statement shared on Instagram read, We lost our darling son and brother James in a motor accident. We respectfully ask for privacy as a family as we process the profound loss.
The second victim’s identity has not been disclosed, though both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. The Irvine Police Department’s Kyle Oldoerp confirmed that the two people inside the McLaren were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators are seeking additional information about the crash, including any witnesses who saw the vehicle before the collision.
Witness Accounts Describe Chaotic Scene
The crash occurred just after midnight, with the McLaren traveling northbound on Culver Drive at a high rate of speed
when the traffic light turned green, as reported by the Irvine Police Department. The vehicle veered right, struck a curb, and slammed into a tree. The impact caused the car to burst into flames,
according to a witness.
Family Statement: A Heartfelt Farewell
James Wehr’s family shared an emotional message on Instagram, describing him as our darling son and brother.
Investigation Ongoing: Cause of Crash Unknown
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the crash, and investigators are asking anyone with information to come forward. A statement from the department said, Investigators are seeking additional information about the crash and are asking anyone who saw the McLaren before it crashed to come forward.
The crash has also raised questions about the safety of large car events, such as the South OC Cars and Coffee gatherings. While the event has grown into a major attraction, it has faced noise complaints from local residents. Wehr’s death has cast a shadow over the event, with many expressing grief over the loss of a key figure in the automotive community.
Impact on Local Car Community
South OC Cars and Coffee, which Wehr co-founded, has become a flagship event for car enthusiasts in Southern California. The weekly gathering, held in San Clemente, has been described as the world’s largest weekly car show.
The event attracts hundreds of vehicles, from classic cars to modern supercars, and has become a cultural fixture in the region. Wehr’s death has left the community in shock, with many expressing their condolences on social media.