Attorneys representing Fraser Bohm, a 23-year-old driver accused of killing four Pepperdine University students, are seeking the dismissal of murder charges against him. A defense motion filed on September 30, 2023, argues that Bohm was “grossly overcharged” and that the evidence presented does not support the severity of the charges. The legal team contends that the facts from a recent preliminary hearing do not substantiate the claims of murder.
Details of the Charges
Bohm faces four counts of murder and charges of vehicular manslaughter after a tragic incident on October 17, 2023, in Malibu. He allegedly drove his BMW at a speed exceeding 100 mph on a section of the Pacific Coast Highway known for its dangers. The crash resulted in the deaths of four Alpha Phi Sorority sisters: Niamh Rolston, 20; Peyton Stewart, 21; Asha Weir, 21; and Deslyn Williams, 21.
Incident Overview
- Date: October 17, 2023
- Location: Malibu, California
- Speed: 104 mph in a 45 mph zone
- Victims: Four Pepperdine students
- Injuries: Two additional individuals were injured; Bohm was unharmed
According to prosecutors, Bohm lost control of his vehicle and collided with three parked cars, which subsequently struck the students walking nearby. Following the incident, Bohm was initially charged with gross vehicular manslaughter, but these charges were later upgraded to second-degree murder.
Legal Proceedings
During a court appearance at the Van Nuys Courthouse, defense attorney Jacqueline Sparanga outlined the rationale behind the motion to dismiss the murder charges. She asserted that there was insufficient legal evidence to support the notion of “implied malice” necessary for murder convictions.
Defense Strategy
- The motion claims a “muddled presentation” by the prosecution.
- Defense lawyers argue that the case should not rise to murder charges.
- Bohm has pleaded not guilty and faces the possibility of multiple life sentences if convicted.
A hearing for this motion is scheduled for November 10, 2023. Bohm’s legal team includes prominent attorney Alan Jackson, known for securing high-profile acquittals. Jackson and his colleagues have previously sought to lower Bohm’s bail from $4 million to $2 million, but that request was denied.
The family’s financial sacrifices to fund the defense have been significant, leading to them selling their home and depleting retirement savings. The outcome of the upcoming hearing could be pivotal in determining the course of this high-stakes legal battle.
