Social media influencer Summer Wheaton has been arrested for allegedly driving under the influence and causing a fatal crash that killed a man.
The tragic accident happened on July 4, 2024, after Wheaton left a high-profile party at Nobu in Malibu. Authorities reported that she turned herself in on Monday, months after the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department issued a warrant for her arrest.
Details of the Crash
Wheaton was charged with drunk driving and manslaughter for the death of Martin Okeke, a 44-year-old rideshare driver, who died at the scene.
She and a passenger in her car were both taken to the hospital for treatment. Police initially suspected that alcohol or speeding played a role in the crash but did not explain why it took so long to arrest Wheaton.
The crash happened around 10:30 p.m. on July 4 along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Legal Actions and Response
In December 2024, Okeke’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Wheaton, claiming she was highly intoxicated and impaired at the time of the accident.
Months after the crash, Wheaton shared an emotional message on her Instagram, hinting at her struggles.
“The last few months have been hard,” she wrote. “You know that feeling when life seems like everything is falling apart, but somehow it’s the start of something beautiful? That was me.”
Records show that Wheaton posted a $250,000 bond following her arrest.
City Officials Speak Out
Malibu Mayor Steve Uhring expressed his condolences to Okeke’s family and acknowledged the ongoing safety issues on the Pacific Coast Highway, which has seen multiple fatal crashes.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life,” Uhring said in a statement. “This heartbreaking incident highlights the importance of making our highways safer.”
The investigation is still ongoing as the community mourns the devastating loss of Martin Okeke.
