Instagram influencer Summer Wheaton has pleaded not guilty to charges of vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence in connection with a fatal crash on July 4, 2024. Prosecutors allege Wheaton, 35, left a celebrity-attended party at Nobu Malibu and drove her Mercedes-Benz across the center median of Pacific Coast Highway, colliding head-on with a Cadillac SUV.
The other driver, 44-year-old Martin Okeke, who was working as a rideshare driver, was pronounced dead at the scene. Wheaton and a passenger in Okeke's vehicle sustained injuries and were transported to a hospital. Investigators previously indicated that speed and alcohol were believed to be factors in the collision.
Wheaton's attorney has contested the prosecution's narrative, asserting that Okeke caused the head-on collision. The incident has drawn attention to the Nobu Malibu restaurant, as city officials revealed they had denied permits for the July 4th event due to unresolved traffic and public safety concerns. Despite the denial, the party reportedly proceeded.
Malibu City Manager Steve McClary had previously warned organizers that holding the event without a permit would violate city codes and could lead to enforcement action. The city's code enforcement department subsequently initiated an investigation into the restaurant concerning the gathering.
Okeke, described by loved ones as a devoted husband and father, was the subject of a GoFundMe campaign established to assist his family with funeral expenses. The campaign has raised nearly $10,000 toward a $50,000 goal.
Wheaton, who promoted herself online as a wellness influencer and had over 100,000 Instagram followers, has seen her social media following decrease by approximately 5,500 users since the crash. She has also made her Instagram account private and removed her personal website. If convicted, Wheaton faces potential prison time.