On the night of October 17, 2023, an event took place on Malibu’s Pacific Coast Highway, leading to the loss of four senior Pepperdine University students.
The incident happened when 22-year-old Fraser Michael Bohm lost control of his BMW near an area of the highway often referred to as “Dead Man’s Curve.” Following this, the vehicle struck several parked cars and subsequently hit students walking on the highway.
The students, identified by the university as Niamh Rolston, Peyton Stewart, Asha Weir, and Deslyn Williams, were confirmed dead at the accident site. Two additional individuals were injured and are currently receiving medical care, though their conditions have not been specified.
Bystanders held Bohm, who did not sustain injuries, until police officials reached the scene.
The authorities initially arrested Bohm on charges of vehicular manslaughter due to perceived negligence. However, he was later released after a review of the evidence available.
Investigators are presently looking into potential causes of the accident, such as high-speed driving or possible mobile phone distractions. The initial assessment has ruled out any involvement of drugs or alcohol in the incident.
The Pepperdine University community has been deeply affected by this event. In response, the university’s president, Jim Gash, extended his condolences to the affected families and students.
To support those impacted, the university organized a prayer service at 10 a.m. the following Thursday. The university also announced plans for individual memorial services for the students who lost their lives, with President Gash highlighting the community’s commitment to remembering and celebrating their lives.