Car Show Founder James Wehr Dies in Fiery Irvine Crash with New Girlfriend

Key points

• James Wehr, 27, and Alexis 'Lexi' Kramer, 22, died in a 2019 McLaren crash in Irvine at approximately 12:20 a.m. on September 13, 2026.
• The vehicle struck a tree and split in half, causing a fire that killed both occupants; police are still investigating who was driving.
• Kramer, a Hooters calendar model from Lakeland, Florida, had flown to California to meet Wehr, whom she had known for one month via Instagram.
• Wehr's family and the South OC Cars and Coffee community have confirmed his death and requested privacy, while his wife Emma Wehr posted a tribute to him.
• Kramer's family claims Wehr told her his marriage to Emma Wehr was over, though court records show no divorce filing had been initiated.

Background

James Wehr was the co-founder of South OC Cars and Coffee, a weekly automotive event in San Clemente, California, that describes itself as the world's largest weekly car show. The event attracts hundreds of car enthusiasts and has gained global attention. Wehr was also an automotive influencer who collaborated with companies like VF Engineering and 1016 Industries. Our earlier coverage noted that Wehr had attended a car show and posted a photo of a police stop shortly before the fatal crash. The crash occurred in Irvine, near Culver Drive and Deerfield Avenue, and investigators have not confirmed the involvement of another vehicle.

How outlets are covering it

The California Post emphasizes the personal tragedy and the alleged deception by Wehr, highlighting that he told Kramer his marriage was over despite being married to Emma Wehr. The Orange County Register focuses on the community impact, noting Wehr's role as a 'community builder' and the grief of the car enthusiast community. Road & Track provides a factual overview of the crash and Wehr's involvement in the automotive industry, noting that it is unclear who was driving. The sources differ in their emphasis, with the California Post focusing on the interpersonal drama and the other outlets focusing on the crash and community impact.

Why it matters

The death of James Wehr, a prominent figure in the Southern California car community, has drawn attention to the risks of high-speed driving and the personal consequences of infidelity. The crash also highlights the emotional toll on families and the community, as well as the ongoing investigation into the circumstances of the crash. The case has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of public figures and the impact of their actions on others.

What to watch

The Irvine Police Department is continuing its investigation into the crash, including determining who was driving the McLaren. The Wehr family has requested privacy as they mourn his death, and the car community is expected to continue paying tribute to Wehr. The legal and personal ramifications of the alleged deception by Wehr may also come to light as the investigation progresses.