Wait Continues for Fraser Michael Bohm Trial in Fatal PCH Crash

Superior Court Judge Thomas Rubinson did not set a trial date at the latest pre-trial hearing for the 2023 crash that killed four Pepperdine students.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:21am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car part, such as a windshield or sensor, dramatically lit by a harsh camera flash against a dark background, conceptually representing the tragic aftermath of the fatal 2023 PCH crash.The ongoing legal battle over the 2023 PCH crash that killed four Pepperdine students continues to weigh heavily on the victims' loved ones.Malibu Today

At an April 9 pre-trial hearing, Superior Court Judge Thomas Rubinson did not set a trial date for Fraser Michael Bohm, who is charged with four counts of murder and four counts of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence in connection with the October 2023 crash on Pacific Coast Highway that killed four Pepperdine seniors. The prosecution and defense said they are hoping for a mid-summer start, but the judge may take time off in August which could affect the trial dates.

Why it matters

The crash that killed Asha Weir, Deslyn Williams, Niamh Rolston and Peyton Stewart has deeply impacted the Pepperdine community, with their best friend and roommate Bridget Thompson becoming a vocal advocate for improved safety on PCH. The delay in setting a trial date has been frustrating for those seeking justice and closure.

The details

At the April 9 hearing, both the prosecution and defense said they are ready to proceed with the trial, but the judge did not provide a specific start date. The defense had previously requested access to Bohm's phone and traffic records for the stretch of PCH where the crash occurred, and the prosecution said they are still working to provide some of that information.

  • The fatal crash occurred on October 17, 2023.
  • A pre-trial hearing was held on February 10, 2024.
  • The latest pre-trial hearing was on April 9, 2026.
  • The next pre-trial hearing is scheduled for May 19, 2026.

The players

Fraser Michael Bohm

The defendant charged with four counts of murder and four counts of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence in connection with the October 2023 crash.

Judge Thomas Rubinson

The Superior Court judge presiding over the pre-trial hearings.

Nathan Bartos

The Deputy District Attorney prosecuting the case.

Jacqueline Sparagna

Bohm's defense attorney.

Bridget Thompson

A Pepperdine alumna and best friend of the four students killed in the crash, who has become an advocate for improved PCH safety.

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What they’re saying

“'Even the days leading up to a hearing, I'm anxious. I woke up this morning super anxious, filled with anxiety, and to just come and have it be five minutes is hard. It feels like a waste of time.'”

— Bridget Thompson, Pepperdine Alumna

“'We've been ready for quite a long time. The only thing right now that we need to do is get all of our witnesses ready to go when we know what the actual start of the trial is.'”

— Nathan Bartos, Deputy District Attorney

“'It's been two and a half years and we're still here doing the same thing and just awaiting a trial date. I think this should have been taken care of a long time ago, but I mean, I do understand that this is the process.'”

— Bridget Thompson, Pepperdine Alumna

“'It's just every day that goes by is a day that I miss my friends more — so it's heartbreaking.'”

— Bridget Thompson, Pepperdine Alumna

What’s next

The next pre-trial hearing is scheduled for May 19, 2026 at the Van Nuys Courthouse. The judge said he may take time off in the first two weeks of August, which could impact the final trial date.

The takeaway

The delay in setting a trial date for the fatal 2023 PCH crash that killed four Pepperdine students has been deeply frustrating for the victims' loved ones, who continue to seek justice and closure. This case highlights the complex legal process and the toll it can take on those impacted by tragedy.