South OC Cars and Coffee founder killed in McLaren crash in Irvine

The founder of what is billed as the world’s biggest weekly car show was killed Saturday when his McLaren slammed into a tree in California, split in two and burst into flames in a horrific early-morning crash.

James Wehr, the owner of South OC Cars and Coffee, was killed in the wreck along with another driver whose identity had not yet been confirmed.

The deadly crash happened around 12:20 a.m. at the intersection of Culver Drive and Deerfield Avenue in Irvine, police said.

Wehr had attended one of his regular car shows earlier that day. Just hours before the fatal crash, he posted a photo on Instagram appearing to show a police cruiser pulling him over in Newport Beach.

Following his death, Wehr’s wife, Emma, shared an emotional tribute online, posting a carousel of photos of the couple.

“James, I never thought the day would come that I’d have to say such a final goodbye. Getting the opportunity to love you will always be the greatest blessing in my life,” she wrote.

“You’re smart, kind, funny, loving, and genuinely one of the best people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing,” she added.

Officers and crews with the Orange County Fire Authority rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a single-vehicle crash.

Investigators said the 2019 McLaren had been stopped at a traffic light before accelerating northbound when the light turned green.

The car was traveling at a high rate of speed when the driver apparently lost control, police said.

The McLaren struck a curb and then slammed into a tree, causing the vehicle to break into two pieces before catching fire.

Two occupants were found dead inside the wreckage. Authorities have not released any identities.

The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.

Authorities have not indicated whether any other vehicles were involved.

---

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters