A 16-year-old driver was behind the wheel of a Range Rover that struck a parked car outside Nobu Malibu early Saturday, killing 51-year-old chef Ryo Uchimiya, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The vehicle involved was leased by British composer Harry Gregson-Williams, whose credits include Shrek, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Gladiator II.
The crash occurred at approximately 6:50 a.m. on Pacific Coast Highway near Carbon Canyon Road. Surveillance footage reviewed by authorities showed the SUV speeding before colliding with Uchimiya’s parked sedan, which was pushed into two other vehicles. The Los Angeles County medical examiner ruled the death an accident, citing multiple blunt force injuries.
Investigation Details
Authorities have not filed charges but continue to review the incident. The teen driver, whose identity has not been released, was described by a witness as shocked and confused following the collision. The Sheriff’s Department confirmed there was no indication of impairment at the time of the crash. The vehicle’s leaseholder, Gregson-Williams, issued a brief statement expressing condolences to both families.
Uchimiya, a sushi chef with 25 years at Nobu, had arrived early for his shift and was napping in his car when the collision occurred. The 21-mile stretch of PCH through Malibu is one of California’s deadliest roads, averaging four crash-related fatalities annually over the past decade.
Vehicle Lease and Driver’s Background
DMV records cited by The California Post indicate the 2026 Range Rover was leased to Gregson-Williams, though the connection between the driver and the composer remains unclear. Gregson-Williams, who attended the Los Angeles premiere of Animals two days prior with Ben Affleck, has not provided further comment beyond his initial statement.
Safety Concerns on PCH
The crash has renewed discussions about road safety on PCH, a route notorious for high-speed incidents. Witnesses reported the teen driver appeared young and unprepared, with some questioning whether he held a valid license. Authorities have not confirmed his licensing status.
The Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the cause of the crash, including potential factors such as speed, driver inexperience, and vehicle condition.