ICYMI: California Influencer Hit With MANSLAUGHTER Charges—After Fancy Malibu Party!
California influencer faces manslaughter charges after a fatal DUI crash following a star-studded Malibu party. 🌐 #News #LosAngelesCA #California #Crime
LOS ANGELES, CA – A wild night in Malibu turned deadly, and now a Los Angeles, California social media star is in custody. Summer Wheaton, a 33-year-old influencer with over 101,000 Instagram followers, surrendered to authorities on Monday. This follows a warrant issued by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department tied to a fatal crash last Fourth of July. The wreck claimed the life of a rideshare driver, and Wheaton now faces manslaughter and drunk driving charges after months of investigation.
Fatal Collision After Exclusive Party
The tragedy struck after Wheaton left a glamorous Independence Day event at Nobu, a ritzy beachfront spot in Malibu.
Around 10:30 p.m., she allegedly veered her 2019 Mercedes Benz over the Pacific Coast Highway’s center line. Her vehicle slammed head-on into a 2020 Cadillac driven by 44-year-old Martin Okeke, a rideshare operator.
Okeke tragically died at the scene, while Wheaton and a passenger from the Cadillac received hospital treatment for injuries. Authorities noted that excessive speed or alcohol likely played a role in the devastating incident.
Delayed Arrest and Legal Fallout
Wheaton’s arrest came months after the crash, though the reasons for the delay remain unclear.
In December, Okeke’s grieving family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against her, claiming she was heavily intoxicated during the collision. The legal action also targets Nobu Malibu and Hwood Group LLC, the hospitality company behind the annual Fourth of July bash.
Court documents reveal that Malibu officials had rejected Nobu’s permit for the event over traffic and safety worries, yet the celebration proceeded. High-profile attendees, including former boxing legend Mike Tyson, were present that night.
Influencer’s Response and Bail
Wheaton, once a real estate agent turned self-proclaimed wellness advocate, stayed silent for months after the crash.
She later took to Instagram, hinting at personal struggles and suggesting the ordeal marked a new chapter for her. Meanwhile, she posted a $250,000 bond following her arrest, according to official records.
This case continues to unfold as legal proceedings ramp up, tying a night of revelry to a tragic loss on a California highway.
Honoring the Victim
Martin Okeke, a 44-year-old rideshare driver, was a hardworking man whose life was tragically cut short on that Fourth of July night. Known for providing for his family and serving others through his work, he embodied the quiet dignity of a life well-lived.
As Psalm 23:4 says, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me,” offering comfort that Martin rests in God’s presence now. His memory lives on through those who loved him.
RELATED TOPICS: Accidents | California | Celebs | Crime
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
