A 2019 McLaren sports car split in two and burst into flames after crashing into a tree on Culver Drive in Irvine early Sunday, killing the driver, James Wehr, 27, and his passenger, Alexis Kramer, 22, authorities confirmed Monday.
The Orange County coroner’s office publicly identified Wehr and Kramer as the victims of the crash, which occurred at approximately 12:20 a.m. on Sunday. The vehicle, a high-performance supercar, veered off the road, clipped a curb, and struck a pine tree, according to Irvine police spokesperson Kyle Oldoerp. The impact caused the car to split into two pieces and ignite, leaving both occupants dead at the scene.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
Victims Identified
The Orange County coroner’s office confirmed the identities of the two individuals killed in the crash. James Wehr, a 27-year-old car influencer from San Clemente, was the driver. Wehr founded South OC Cars and Coffee, a weekly meetup for car enthusiasts. Alexis Kramer, a 22-year-old bartender from Lakeland, Florida, was his passenger. Kramer had flown to California just two days prior to meet Wehr in person for the first time after connecting online.
Police Probe Crash Details
Irvine police continue to investigate the cause of the crash. Speed is believed to be a factor, though authorities have not ruled out other possibilities. The 2019 McLaren was traveling on Culver Drive when it lost control, according to investigators. The Orange County Fire Authority responded to the scene and confirmed the vehicle was engulfed in flames upon arrival.
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
Victims’ Backgrounds
Wehr, known for his weekly car meetups, had a significant online presence as a car influencer. Kramer, whose Instagram bio identified her as a 2026 Hooters calendar girl, shared Wehr’s passion for cars and motorcycles. According to her sister, Gracie Kramer, Alexis had been in contact with Wehr for about a month before her trip. Gracie told the California Post that Wehr had paid for Alexis’s flight from Florida, claiming he was separated from his wife and in the process of divorcing.
Prior Traffic Stop
Newport Beach police confirmed that Wehr was stopped by an officer on Saturday night, approximately five hours before the crash. The stop occurred near Newport Boulevard and Finley Avenue at 7:21 p.m. on Saturday. According to Newport Beach police spokesperson Heather Rangel, the officer observed a vehicle with a loud exhaust and issued Wehr a warning. The stop did not result in any citations or arrests.
Community Response
A makeshift memorial formed at the crash site, featuring bouquets of roses, daisies, and white lilies, as well as toy cars, including a Hot Wheels Porsche. The tree where the crash occurred became a focal point for tributes, reflecting Wehr’s passion for automobiles. Family and friends of the victims have gathered to honor their memories.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not yet determined the exact cause of the crash. Investigators are examining the vehicle’s condition, road conditions, and potential contributing factors, including speed and driver error. The Orange County coroner’s office has not released additional details pending further examination.
Family Statements
Gracie Kramer, Alexis’s sister, expressed grief and raised questions about the circumstances leading to the crash. She told the California Post that she had doubts about Wehr’s claims of being separated from his wife, noting that Orange County court records did not show a filed divorce case. Gracie described her sister as someone who loved the car community, calling the crash a tragic end to her life.