James Wehr's Last Ride South OC Cars & Coffee Pay Tribute

James Wehr, a 27‑year‑old car influencer, and his friend Alexis “Lexi” Kramer, 22, were killed in a fatal car accident in Irvine, California, on Sunday night, September 13. Police said Wehr was driving a 2019 McLaren supercar but “lost control” while traveling northbound at a high speed.

The vehicle struck a curb and a tree before the car split in two and caught fire.

On Monday, September 14, a relative of Kramer identified her as the second victim in the crash. The family released a post on Instagram announcing a memorial for Wehr and “his friend,” saying: “Please join us as we remember our son James and his friend Lexi, who tragically lost their lives together,” the post read.

“Everyone is welcome to join us as we come together to remember James and celebrate the incredible impact he had on so many lives.”

The post added, “A celebration of James’ life will take place at South OC Cars and Coffee this Saturday, September 19, from 8:30–11:00 a.m.,” and urged attendees to wear white sneakers and drive safely. It also requested privacy from the family while they process the loss.

## Background & Context

Wehr co‑founded South OC Cars and Coffee with his father, Simon Wehr, making it the largest weekly car show in the world. The community had celebrated his passion for automobiles and his role as a social media influencer before the tragedy. His Instagram posts often highlighted local car culture and hosted meet‑ups for enthusiasts.

In an Instagram post on Sunday, South OC Cars and Coffee identified Wehr as one of the two victims who died in the crash. The same post was reshared by Wehr’s parents, Simon and Sarah, his sister Sophia, and his wife Emma. They wrote: “Unfortunately, we have some really heavy news to share with you all.

This morning, just after midnight, we lost our darling son and brother James in a motor accident.”

A family member of Kramer told the California Post that she had flown to California on Friday, September 11, to spend the weekend with Wehr. The relative also claimed that Wehr had told Kramer he was in the midst of divorcing his wife.

## What People Are Saying

Wehr’s widow hired attorney Corey Higgins to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

On Wednesday, September 16, Higgins posted a video on Instagram saying: “At the time of the collision, a significant amount of water was present on the roadway on an otherwise clear night, creating an extremely hazardous condition for any motorist.” He added that the source of the water was yet to be identified and that his firm was actively investigating how it appeared and who might bear responsibility.

The family’s Instagram post also requested privacy from friends, families, and the public as they process the profound loss.

## What Happens Next

The memorial service will be held Saturday, September 19, from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. at South OC Cars and Coffee. Attendees are encouraged to wear white sneakers and to drive safely, following the post’s reminder of road safety. The investigation will also look into road conditions and potential contributory factors.

Wehr’s widow remains engaged in the investigation led by Corey Higgins, who is examining how water appeared on the roadway and identifying potential liability. The family has requested continued privacy as they navigate this difficult period.

The community at South OC Cars and Coffee will gather to honor the lives of James Wehr and Alexis Kramer, reflecting on their impact within the car culture scene and extending support to those left in their wake. He was known for his enthusiastic presence at car events and his dedication to connecting enthusiasts.