Founder of South OC Cars and Coffee dies in Irvine McLaren crash
James Wehr, 27, the founder of the South OC Cars and Coffee weekly car show, was killed along with a passenger when his McLaren collided with a tree in Irvine, California, early Saturday morning.
James Wehr, 27, the owner of the South OC Cars and Coffee weekly car meet, died in a single-vehicle crash in Irvine, California, around 12:20 a.m. on Saturday. Police said the 2019 McLaren accelerated from a stopped position at the intersection of Culver Drive and Deerfield Avenue, struck a curb, hit a tree and broke in two before catching fire. Two occupants were found dead inside the vehicle. The incident is under investigation and authorities have not indicated involvement of other vehicles.
Wehr had attended his regular car show earlier in the day and posted a photo on Instagram an hour before the crash. His wife, Emma, posted a tribute on social media, describing him as kind and loving. Family members, including his mother Sarah and sister, also shared statements expressing grief.
South OC Cars and Coffee, founded by Wehr and his father Simon, draws hundreds of vehicles and spectators each Saturday at the Outlets at San Clemente. Simon said the event relies on about 50 volunteers who enforce rules against revving, speeding and burnouts to keep the gathering safe. Wehr had previously spoken about the multigenerational appeal of the show.
The family asked for privacy as they mourn the loss.