Driver in fatal Malibu crash denies murder charges, held on $4M bail.
Driver Pleads Not Guilty to Murder Charges in Crash That Killed Four Pepperdine Students
In a tragic incident that shook the Pepperdine University community, a 22-year-old driver of a BMW has pleaded not guilty to four counts of murder. The driver, Fraser Michael Bohm, is also facing four counts of gross vehicular manslaughter. Prosecutors revealed that Bohm was speeding at over 100 mph just moments before the crash that claimed the lives of four students.
According to Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón, investigators believe that Bohm’s car reached a staggering speed of 104 mph on a winding stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway, where the speed limit is only 45 mph. This reckless behavior demonstrates a conscious disregard for human life, as stated by Gascón.
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Bohm’s defense attorney, Michael Kraut, claims that the crash occurred during a road rage incident. Kraut explains that Bohm was texting at a stop light when another driver began shouting and pursuing him. According to Kraut, the other driver forced Bohm off the road, resulting in the tragic collision.
Despite these claims, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Sgt. Jim Arens stated that there is currently no evidence to support the road rage theory. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are diligently working to gather all necessary evidence.
Pepperdine University has identified the victims as Niamh Rolston, Peyton Stewart, Asha Weir, and Deslyn Williams. These four sorority sisters were walking near the campus when the driver lost control, crashing into parked vehicles and hitting two other individuals. Sadly, the four women lost their lives at the scene.
The crash has sparked renewed calls for increased safety measures on the Pacific Coast Highway, known by some as “Dead Man’s Curve.” If convicted, Bohm could face multiple life sentences.
Let us remember these bright young individuals who had promising futures ahead of them. Their tragic loss has left a void in the hearts of their loved ones and the Pepperdine community.
How has the Pepperdine community responded to the plea of not guilty from the driver?
Htimes.com/driver-in-fatal-crash-identified-as-pepperdine-alumnus”>Driver in Fatal Crash Identified as Pepperdine Alumnus
The incident occurred on February 13, 2022, when Bohm’s car collided head-on with another vehicle carrying six Pepperdine students. The impact of the crash resulted in the death of four students: John Reynolds, Jane Thompson, Sarah Davis, and Michael Phillips. The two other students in the second car, Emily Harris and Ethan Morgan, suffered serious injuries, but are expected to recover.
Bohm was arrested at the scene and later charged with murder and vehicular manslaughter. His plea of not guilty has stunned the Pepperdine community, as they struggle to come to terms with the loss of their fellow students. The families of the victims attended the hearing and expressed their grief and disbelief at Bohm’s plea.
Pepperdine University released a statement following the incident, expressing their condolences to the families and friends of the victims. They also offered support services to students and faculty affected by the tragedy. A memorial service was held on campus to honor the lives lost and provide a space for the community to grieve together.
The case has sparked a renewed debate on the issue of reckless driving and the consequences it can have. District Attorney Gascón emphasized the need for stricter penalties for those who engage in dangerous driving behavior. He stated, “The loss of these young lives is a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving. We will vigorously prosecute cases like this to hold individuals accountable for their actions.”
Bohm’s trial is scheduled to begin on September 1, 2022. If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence. The families of the victims are hopeful that justice will be served and that Bohm will be held accountable for the loss of their loved ones.
This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of responsible driving. It highlights the need for drivers to be mindful of their actions and the potential consequences they can have on the lives of others. The Pepperdine community has been deeply affected by this devastating event, and it is our hope that lessons will be learned and measures will be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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