July 15, 2025 Breaking News, Latest News, and Videos

Fraser Bohm Freed After Facing Murder Charges in Pepperdine Student Deaths

Controversial Release: Driver Accused in Tragic Crash Out on Bond

The 22-year-old driver, Fraser Michael Bohm, who was jailed following a crash earlier this month, has been released on bond, as reported by KTLA. The fatal crash occurred on October 17 when the four college seniors were struck by a vehicle allegedly driven by Bohm. Initially arrested for gross vehicular manslaughter, Bohm was released from custody a few hours later as the LA County Sherriffs conducted an investigation. 

Bohm was re-arrested on October 24 and charged with four counts of murder in connection with the deaths of Pepperdine University students Niamh Rolston, Peyton Stewart, Asha Weir, and Deslyn Williams. On October 27, around 8:30 p.m., Bohm was released on bond.

Michael Kraut, Fraser Bohm’s defense attorney, has asserted that his client was involved in a road rage incident prior to the crash on Pacific Coast Highway near Duke’s Malibu, a local restaurant approximately three miles west of the crash site, and that Bohm was chased by another driver. 

Kraut cited security footage that supports these assertions, adding that the investigation done by the defense knows who drove the other vehicle and claims that authorities may have arrested the wrong person. Kraut stated, “We’ve actually been able to track down who this person is and the person who admitted to a family member that they did drive him off the road.”

Following a court appearance on October 25, where Bohm pleaded not guilty, his bond was reduced from $8 million to $4 million.

Neighbors, Pepperdine officials, and advocates for traffic safety organized demonstrations last week, urging safety enhancements along the perilous roadway. Their proposals include speed cameras, reduced speed limits, and heightened law enforcement patrols.

in News
<>Related Posts

California Hits Two-Thirds Clean Energy Milestone

July 15, 2025

July 15, 2025

This year, clean energy has powered the state for an average of seven hours daily, with over 90% of days...

Venice Beach to Host First Medal at 2028 Olympics

July 15, 2025

July 15, 2025

Venice Beach, known for its vibrant boardwalk, will kick off the 844 ticketed events, hosting the triathlon along its coastline...

Santa Monica Man Arrested for Allegedly Exporting Electronics to Iran

July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025

Ostovari, identified as the CEO of a Tehran-based engineering firm, allegedly orchestrated the scheme since 2018  A 66-year-old Santa Monica...

Federal Judge Sides with Santa Monica, Other Local Governments Against Immigration Raids

July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025

Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete praised the ruling, saying it reaffirmed the city’s commitment to protecting residents from unjust detention...

Veterans Tech Group to Launch Los Angeles Chapter with Networking Event

July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025

Founded in San Francisco, VetsInTech operates 20 chapters nationwide and claims more than 60,000 veterans VetsInTech, a national nonprofit that...

Film Review: Jurassic World: Rebirth

July 13, 2025

July 13, 2025

“The story is simplistic and predictive, and that’s all it needs to be, because the age-old battle to survive the...

Santa Monica Assault Suspect Faces Multiple Charges, Authorities Seek Additional Victims

July 13, 2025

July 13, 2025

Marbra allegedly assaulted a 52-year-old woman on the Strand in Santa Monica, facing a felony count of assault with intent...

SM.a.r.t.Column: Does the Rand Corporation have a future in Santa Monica?

July 13, 2025

July 13, 2025

“Although no one said it outright, it is clear to all that RAND is feeling—and will continue to feel—the impact...

County Health Leaders Decry Federal Policy Barring Undocumented from Programs

July 12, 2025

July 12, 2025

The officials argued the policy jeopardizes care for all residents, noting it could deter people—regardless of status—from seeking treatment  Leaders...

County Supervisors Move to Preserve Measure J Amid Charter Error

July 12, 2025

July 12, 2025

Measure J mandates that at least 10% of the county’s locally generated, unrestricted funds be allocated to community investments like...

LA Medical Center Seeks Help Identifying Unconscious Patient

July 12, 2025

July 12, 2025

He has been unconscious since admission, and staff have been unable to determine his identity Los Angeles General Medical Center,...

Mayor Bass Issues Directive to Protect Immigrant Communities

July 12, 2025

July 12, 2025

The order expands access to city resources for affected families and requests records from ICE, including details on arrests Mayor...

Downtown Santa Monica CEO Andrew Thomas to Step Down

July 11, 2025

July 11, 2025

Thomas, who rejoined DTSM, Inc. in 2022, oversaw the introduction of a private security program, expanded homeless outreach, and boosted...

Conservancy to Tour Historic Miles Playhouse at State of the City Event

July 11, 2025

July 11, 2025

Built in 1929, the Miles Playhouse serves as the centerpiece of Lincoln Park The Santa Monica Conservancy will offer 15-minute...

Sen. Ben Allen Highlights Challenges, Economic Gains for LA28 Olympics

July 11, 2025

July 11, 2025

The remarks came during the first informational hearing of the Senate’s Special Committee on International Sporting Events State Sen. Ben...