Car show founder and Hooters model killed in Irvine McLaren crash

James Wehr, 27, the founder of a popular weekly car show in San Clemente, and 22-year-old Alexis “Lexi” Kramer were killed in a crash involving a McLaren sports car in Irvine early Sunday. Police said the vehicle stopped at a red light near Culver Drive and Deerfield Avenue, accelerated when the light turned green, and then lost control, striking a tree. The impact split the car and caused a fire, killing both occupants. Authorities have not disclosed who was driving and the investigation is ongoing.

According to a family member, Kramer had traveled from Lakeland, Florida, to California after meeting Wehr on Instagram and spending the weekend together, including attending his car show. The family member said Wehr told Kramer he was separating from his wife, Emma Wehr, although court records show no divorce filing.

Witnesses reported hearing a loud noise and seeing a large fire at the scene. The medical examiner’s office has received dental records for identification but has not released the victims’ names.

Kramer, a bartender who had recently secured a leadership position at a new company and was featured as a 2026 Hooters calendar model, was remembered by her sister on social media. Emma Wehr posted a tribute to her husband following the crash.

The Wehr family requested privacy as they mourn both losses.