16-Year-Old Student Dies in Malibu Tesla Crash

Hunter Langley's death leaves Sierra Canyon School community in mourning

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Hunter Langley, a 16-year-old student at Sierra Canyon School, died after the Tesla Model S he was driving veered off a highway in Malibu, California and fell 30 feet down a ravine. The tragic accident occurred on the morning of February 4, 2026, leaving the school community devastated by the loss of the young life.

Why it matters

The death of a teenage student in a high-profile car crash has shaken the local community and raised questions about road safety, particularly for young and inexperienced drivers. The incident also highlights the risks associated with advanced vehicle technologies like Teslas, which can pose unique challenges for young operators.

The details

According to authorities, Langley was driving a 2018 Tesla Model S when it suddenly made a sharp turn on Malibu Canyon Road near Pepperdine University and veered off the highway, falling about 30 feet down a dirt ravine. Emergency responders pronounced Langley deceased at the scene. The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.

  • The accident occurred shortly before 7:40 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
  • Langley was pronounced dead at the scene around 7:50 a.m.

The players

Hunter Langley

A 16-year-old student at Sierra Canyon School who died in the Tesla crash.

Jim Skrumbis

The Head of School at Sierra Canyon School, who expressed condolences to Langley's family.

Marquis Johnson

A fellow Sierra Canyon School student who described Langley as a "great guy" and said they felt like brothers.

Sean Parrow

Another Sierra Canyon School student who said Langley "put a light to the room every time he walked in" and that his death is "very devastating."

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What they’re saying

“My deepest sympathies are with the family as they navigate an unimaginable loss, and I know our entire community will join me in holding them in our thoughts and prayers.”

— Jim Skrumbis, Head of School, Sierra Canyon School (KTLA)

“He was a great kid ... I feel so sorry for his parents. Condolences to them, of course. He was always the nicest person, he put a light to the room every time he walked in.”

— Sean Parrow, Sierra Canyon School student (ABC 7)

“I've barely known him for about six months, but honestly, we felt like we were brothers. I was crying for at least 20 minutes. It was just horrible.”

— Marquis Johnson, Sierra Canyon School student (NBC 4)

What’s next

The California Highway Patrol's West Valley office is investigating the cause of the crash.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of road safety education and responsible driving practices, especially for young and inexperienced drivers operating advanced vehicle technologies. The Sierra Canyon School community is coming together to support Langley's family and process this devastating loss.