James Wehr, 27, the founder of the popular South OC Cars and Coffee car show, died early Saturday morning when his 2019 McLaren 720S crashed into a tree in Irvine, California. The supercar reportedly split in two and ignited in flames, killing Wehr and another driver who was in the vehicle. The crash occurred around 12:20 a.m. after the McLaren had stopped at a traffic light and then accelerated at high speed, leading the driver to lose control.
An hour before the fatal incident, Wehr had posted a video on Instagram showing a police car behind his black McLaren in Newport Beach. The reason for the traffic stop remains unclear. Shortly after, he posted a photo of the McLaren parked in front of the Pendry hotel.
According to the Irvine Police Department, the car clipped a curb before veering off the road and striking a tree. The circumstances surrounding the crash, including whether other vehicles were involved, are still under investigation.
Wehr co-founded South OC Cars and Coffee with his father, Simon Wehr. The weekly event, held at the Outlets at San Clemente, draws an estimated 800 to 2,500 vehicles and attendees. Friends and family remembered Wehr as a passionate entrepreneur and a beloved figure in the automotive community.
His mother, Sarah Wehr, described him as a 'magnificent man' with a profound love for his family and friends. His wife, Emma, shared a heartfelt tribute, calling him 'smart, kind, funny, loving' and the greatest blessing in her life. His sister, Sophie, pledged to live each day in his memory. Friends recalled his infectious laugh, his drive, and his generosity, with one friend calling him a 'modern day Paul Walker' and an 'icon in the car community.'
Wehr's death occurred on what would have been Paul Walker's birthday, a detail noted by a friend who remembered Wehr as a significant inspiration and a key figure in building a community that felt like family.