Influencer Arrested in Fatal Malibu DUI Crash

Summer Wheaton Faces Charges of Drunk Driving and Manslaughter

Summer Wheaton, a 33-year-old digital influencer, is at the center of a major controversy following a fatal post-party accident. The content creator was arrested after a months-long investigation into her alleged involvement in a deadly collision in Malibu on July 4th last year. Authorities have charged her with vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence (DUI) after she crashed head-on into another vehicle, resulting in the death of 44-year-old rideshare driver Martin Okeke.

In February, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department issued an arrest warrant after confirming Wheaton was intoxicated at the time of the crash. Her arrest has stirred social media, where she is known for sharing wellness and lifestyle content with thousands of followers.

According to the police report, Wheaton had been attending a private event at Nobu Malibu, a popular hotspot for celebrities and influencers. At around 10 p.m., she left the venue drunk, driving her white 2019 Mercedes-Benz.

While traveling on the Pacific Coast Highway, Wheaton lost control of the vehicle, crossed the center divider, and collided head-on with an oncoming 2020 Cadillac. The impact was devastating. Martin Okeke died at the scene, while Wheaton and her passenger sustained minor injuries and received medical attention at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. Toxicology tests later confirmed that Wheaton’s blood alcohol level was over California’s legal limit of 0.08%.

Okeke’s Family Sues Summer Wheaton and Nobu

In late 2024, the family of Martin Okeke filed a civil lawsuit against Summer Wheaton, holding her responsible for his death. The family’s legal team asserts that Wheaton’s intoxication directly caused the fatal crash.

The lawsuit also names Nobu Malibu, accusing the restaurant of hosting the private event without the required city permits and safety protocols. The family argues that these oversights enabled attendees, including Wheaton, to drive while impaired.

Okeke’s family is seeking compensation for the tragic loss of their loved one and the emotional suffering they’ve endured. The lawsuit aims to hold Wheaton and the other parties involved accountable for their alleged negligence.

Drunk Driving: Risks and Legal Consequences

Drinking and driving don’t mix. Not only does it have serious legal and financial consequences, but it also endangers lives. In fact, drunk driving is one of the leading causes of fatal accidents in the United States. Alcohol impairs cognitive and motor skills, affecting vision, coordination, and reaction time. It also increases the risk of distracted driving.

In California, DUI laws are strict, and the penalties can be severe. The legal consequences depend on the severity of the accident. They can include fines, license suspension, higher insurance rates, and jail time. In cases like Summer Wheaton’s, where drunk driving results in a fatality, the driver may face wrongful death charges, significantly increasing the legal consequences.

Hire Adamson Ahdoot for Your Injury Case

Motor vehicle collisions, particularly those caused by drunk driving, can have life-altering and devastating effects. The tragic accident involving Summer Wheaton and Martin Okeke serves as a reminder that justice can be served. While the legal process is still ongoing, Okeke’s family has strong evidence to support their claim, and they are likely to receive fair compensation for their loss and the emotional pain they have endured.

If you or a loved one has suffered injury or loss due to an accident, trust Adamson Ahdoot. With over a century of experience, our firm is ready to fight for your rights in personal injury cases across California.

We are here to guide you through the legal process with compassion and expertise. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call us at (800) 310-1606 or submit your case online to discuss your legal options. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.