A 22-year-old BMW driver, initially suspected of vehicular manslaughter, now faces a murder case and an $8 million bail in connection with a tragic crash that claimed the lives of four college seniors in Malibu, California.
Fraser Michael Bohm was arrested at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday and booked at LASD's Lost Hills Station with a significant bail amount. The arrest came one week after Bohm was involved in a fatal accident on Pacific Coast Highway where he lost control of his vehicle, struck three parked cars, and killed Niamh Rolston, 20, Peyton Stewart, 21, Asha Weir, 21, and Deslyn Williams, 21. All the victims were college seniors and sorority sisters studying at Pepperdine University's Seaver College of Liberal Arts.
Bohm, who was known locally as a former baseball player at Oaks Christian High School, had just turned 22 the day before the tragic crash.
The upgrade of charges to four counts of murder followed extensive investigations, including analysis of Bohm's speed, toxicology testing, and the execution of search warrants.
Initially, Bohm had been released from custody as additional evidence, such as toxicology reports and speed analysis, was pending and took extra time to collect.
According to investigators, the accident occurred around 8:30 p.m. on October 17, with the victims tragically losing their lives at the scene. Bohm was driving westbound on Pacific Coast Highway when he lost control of his car and swerved towards the shoulder of the north side of the road, resulting in the fatal collision.
Los Angeles Sheriff's Department Capt. Jennifer Seetoo, during a press conference, pleaded for policy changes to prevent such devastating accidents in the future, emphasizing the need for safety improvements on the highway.
The president of Pepperdine University, Jim Gash, expressed his condolences and support for the families, describing the incident as "an unimaginable tragedy." He assured the community that the university stands with them during these challenging times.
Pepperdine University's statement honoring the victims highlighted their unique contributions to the university and expressed deep sorrow for the unfulfilled potential of these beloved community members.
At a memorial service for the victims, a friend named Aubrey Lewis emotionally described the four as "our best friends" who meant everything to them. The university's provost announced that the victims would receive posthumous degrees in 2024 in recognition of their outstanding achievements, both socially and academically.
The sheriff's department is committed to seeking justice for the victims and their grieving families and friends, collaborating closely with a specialized district attorney for prosecution related to fatal collisions. The authorities expressed their heartfelt condolences and solidarity with the victims' families and the entire student community during this challenging period.
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