Family Mourns Chef Killed in Malibu Crash; Teen Driver Uncharged

The family of Ryo Uchimiya, a chef at Nobu Malibu, is mourning his death following a collision on Pacific Coast Highway, as the 16-year-old driver of the vehicle that struck his car has not been charged.

Uchimiya, 51, was killed on October 3rd while resting in his parked car before an early shift at the popular restaurant. According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, a Range Rover slammed into his sedan around 6:50 a.m. in Malibu. The crash resulted in a chain reaction involving four vehicles, and Uchimiya was pronounced dead at the scene.

His wife, Eiko Uchimiya, described him as a devoted father whose primary concern was providing a secure future for his family. She shared her grief in a tribute to her husband, stating, "I lost my love of my life, my husband." She further noted, "Ryo’s biggest motivation was his family."

A GoFundMe page established to support the children's future and education has garnered over $55,000 as of Friday afternoon. The family is seeking donations to help them navigate life without Uchimiya.

Authorities reported no immediate signs of intoxication or driving under the influence. The teenage driver, whose identity has not been released as he is a minor, cooperated with investigators before being released. The investigation into the collision is ongoing, with investigators at the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station reconstructing the incident to determine if charges, such as vehicular manslaughter, should be referred to the District Attorney's office.

The Range Rover involved in the crash was leased by Hollywood composer Harry Gregson-Williams, according to DMV records. Gregson-Williams commented on the situation, stating, "This family is grieving just as the other family."

It remains unclear what relationship the 16-year-old driver has with Gregson-Williams or why he was driving the vehicle at the time of the incident.