A driver accused of causing the deaths of four Pepperdine University students faced a judge on Wednesday. Fraser Baum, 23, is now represented by a prominent defense attorney who previously helped a high-profile case.
Baum was arrested in Van Nuys and pleaded guilty to charges related to the fatal incident involving Nam Rollston, 20, Payton Stewart, 21, Asha Weir, 21, and Deslyn Williams, 21. Reports indicate he was driving at over 100 mph when the crash occurred.
Wearing a dark gray suit, Baum did not speak during the short hearing as his new attorney, Alan Jackson, entered the plea for him. Jackson, known for defending notable figures, expressed plans to take charge of the case later this month and mentioned he would raise specific concerns in the next court session.
He commented on the challenges his team faces, saying, “The prosecution has a head start, and we have a lot of ground to cover.” He also speculated that the trial wouldn’t likely start before late 2025.
Authorities claim that Baum was driving at a dangerous speed when he lost control of his vehicle, crashing into three parked cars on the Pacific Coast Highway, a road known for its hazards. Tragically, all four victims, who were students, died at the scene.
Additionally, two other individuals sustained injuries in the incident, while Baum emerged unscathed. Initially charged with vehicular manslaughter, his charges were escalated to four counts of murder a week later.
After being held on an $8 million bail, his bail was later reduced following claims from a prior attorney that he was a victim of road rage.
During an earlier court session, a deputy district attorney emphasized the deliberate nature of Baum’s actions, stating that he made a conscious choice to accelerate to an unsafe speed before losing control, implying it wasn’t merely an accident.
If found guilty, Baum could face multiple life sentences. A pretrial hearing is set for September 5th.
