Car Event Co-Founder James Wehr, 27, Killed in Fiery McLaren Crash in Irvine

A 27-year-old car enthusiast and co-founder of a popular Southern California automotive event was among two people killed in a fiery McLaren crash in Irvine early Sunday morning.

The accident occurred at approximately 12:18 a.m. on September 13, 2026, at the intersection of Culver Drive and Deerfield Avenue in Irvine, California.

According to police, a 2019 McLaren was stopped at a red light before accelerating at high speed. The driver subsequently lost control, veered over the curb and crashed into a tree.

The impact caused the vehicle to split in two and burst into flames.

Both occupants were killed at the scene.

One of the victims was identified as James Wehr, 27, whose family has confirmed his death.

Wehr was known in Southern California’s automotive community as the co-founder of South OC Cars & Coffee, a popular car event in San Clemente that brought together automotive enthusiasts.

News of his death has prompted an outpouring of grief among people familiar with his work and involvement in the local car community.

The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation. Authorities have not released further details about the second occupant based on the information currently available.

Investigators are continuing to examine the moments leading up to the collision, including the vehicle’s speed and what caused the driver to lose control after lea

Source: KTLA